Should the Jets turn to Sterling Shepard or Tyler Johnson vs. Lions?

The New York Jets are getting hit hard by injuries right now, particularly at the wide receiver position. What was once a relatively strong position to start the regular season has quickly become a weakness, with only four "healthy" bodies on the 53-man roster right now.

Veteran Tim Patrick is currently on injured reserve with a groin injury, while first-round rookie Omar Cooper Jr. is still working his way back from IR with a high-ankle sprain. Arian Smith, who hardly played offense in the first place, is out for the season.

To make matters worse, WR2 Adonai Mitchell, who is the Jets' second-leading receiver behind Garrett Wilson, has been limited in practice the last two days with a finger injury, leaving Wilson, return specialist Isaiah Williams, and recent practice squad signing Malik McClain as the only three legitimately healthy options.

Head coach Aaron Glenn confirmed on Friday, via ESPN's Rich Cimini, that the Jets are planning to elevate a wide receiver from the practice squad for Sunday's game against the Detroit Lions, but declined to say who. Which veteran should get the nod?

Will the New York Jets turn to Sterling Shepard or Tyler Johnson at WR?

After the Jets placed Cooper on injured reserve last week, they made two additions to their practice squad in Sterling Shepard and Tyler Johnson. Both veterans needed some time to acclimate to the offense and were not suited up for New York's matchup with the Green Bay Packers in Week 2.

With one of them set to make their 2026 debut on Sunday, each carries their own positives and negatives. Shepard seems to be the most reliable of the bunch, despite his age.

The 10-year NFL veteran and longtime New York Giants fan favorite was productive for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers last year. He hauled in 39 receptions for 371 yards and a touchdown. Working against him is his unfamiliarity with the Jets and their coaching staff.

Johnson hasn't been as productive throughout his NFL career as Shepard, but considering he was a member of the Jets last season, he may have a leg up on his fellow practice squad pass catcher. The coaching staff isn't the exact same as last year, but he surely has a rapport with Glenn.

The Jets really can't go wrong either way, as they just need a healthy body in the mix when they face the Lions. If they have to choose, though, Shepard feels like the more productive option.

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