New York Jets EDGE Jermaine Johnson suffered a season-ending torn Achilles injury in Week 2 against the Tennessee Titans last year. It delivered a massive blow to both the Jets’ pass rush and Johnson’s career.

As a sophomore in 2023, he had broken out of his shell by recording 7.5 sacks. The early-season setback robbed him of a proper follow-up showing.

The Jets are reliant on Johnson making a full recovery and regaining explosion as a pass rusher. Johnson and Will McDonald IV are the only proven EDGE rushers on the roster. There’s little-to-no depth behind them.

ESPN recently published an article outlining the top storylines to follow around the league heading into training camp. There’s a specific section that focuses on five injuries worth monitoring. Johnson’s recovery is featured.

“Johnson is expected to return in Week 1 (against his old teammate, quarterback Aaron Rodgers), but could start training camp on the PUP list, according to new coach Aaron Glenn,” Benjamin Solak wrote. “Because of the scheme switch from Robert Saleh to Glenn, it’s important that Johnson gets at least some time to knock the rust off in August.”

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Solak makes sense. Coach Aaron Glenn is introducing a new defensive scheme. Training camp and the preseason are when players begin acclimating to a new system ahead of the regular-season campaign. Ideally, Johnson would receive that opportunity, but there are no guarantees.

“Athletes returning from Achilles tears can also struggle for months to reclaim their old explosiveness,” Solak continued. “To accurately gauge how he might impact the game in September, if and when he’s back in Week 1, it’s important to get a good look at him on the move during camp.”

Jets fans should receive an update on Johnson’s health at training camp next week.