Just when the New York Jets started to build some momentum, their offense took another major hit. Star receiver Garrett Wilson is now expected to miss several weeks with a recurring knee issue, a development that leaves an already thin passing attack without its primary weapon. The timing is particularly challenging, as the Jets face a short week with a road game against a division leader.
What Is the Latest on Garrett Wilson’s Knee Injury?
According to multiple reports, Garrett Wilson is expected to be sidelined for at least three to four weeks due to a right knee sprain. This marks the second time during the 2025-26 season that Wilson has dealt with an issue in that same knee. He had just come back after sitting out Weeks 7 and 8 with a hyperextended knee. After being cleared to play, he aggravated the injury on a deep pass during the third quarter of Sunday’s 27-20 victory over the Cleveland Browns.
The injury occurred on a long, contested pass from quarterback Justin Fields. Wilson slid on the damp turf, and after getting up, he began to limp before the training staff came to assist him off the field.
Although he was seen on a stationary bike, he did not return to the game. He finished with zero receptions on three targets, marking the first time in his career that he has been held without a catch. His absence was immediately felt, as New York managed only 169 total yards and 42 net passing yards in the win.
Following the game, Wilson underwent an MRI on Monday to determine the extent of the damage. While reports indicate that surgery will not be required, head coach Aaron Glenn stated that the team was “still evaluating” the situation and would await doctors’ input before making any official designation for the upcoming week. The working expectation remains that he will be out for several weeks.
What Is Garrett Wilson’s Anticipated Return Timeline?
Based on the three- to four-week timeline, the earliest Wilson could potentially return is for the Week 14 matchup in Miami on Dec. 7. If his recovery takes longer, a Week 15 return against Jacksonville on Dec. 14 is also a plausible option. This timetable depends entirely on his medical clearance and his progress in practice once he can participate.
This extended absence also jeopardizes Wilson’s streak of 1,000-yard seasons. Through the seven games he has played, he has recorded 36 receptions for 395 yards and four touchdowns. According to PFSN’s WR Impact metric, Wilson is ranked No. 53 among receivers in the league this season.
With the Jets having won two consecutive games after a difficult 0-7 start, the team is showing signs of improvement but still struggles with offensive inconsistency. Because of this, there is no incentive to rush a cornerstone player like Wilson back before he is fully healthy.
In his absence, the team’s depth at wide receiver will be significantly tested. With Josh Reynolds already on injured reserve, the receiving corps will now rely on rookie Arian Smith, Tyler Johnson, Isaiah Williams, and John Metchie III, who made his Jets debut on Sunday. Adonai Mitchell, acquired in the Sauce Gardner trade, is also expected to be available.
Furthermore, Allen Lazard, who was a healthy scratch against Cleveland, could see himself back in the lineup to help fill the void.