WARE, England – The New York Jets are gearing up for their international clash against the Minnesota Vikings in London on Sunday, but the team will once again be missing a critical defensive player. Linebacker C.J. Mosley, who has been sidelined since suffering a toe injury during Week 2 against the Tennessee Titans, remains unlikely to play despite making progress in practice.

Mosley’s Recovery Still in Progress

Head coach Robert Saleh gave an update on Mosley’s status ahead of the game, acknowledging that while the linebacker is working hard to return, his chances of suiting up this week remain slim.

“C.J. is going to continue to work,” Saleh said. “From an availability standpoint, we’ll see. But his practice, he’ll be part of individual drills, and just working through it all. I’m not going to lie to you, it’s probably a stretch. But we’re not going to rule him out quite yet.”

Mosley has been listed as limited in practice for three straight days, a step up from last week when he was unable to participate. Even though his absence from the game is likely, his progress signals a potential return in the near future.

Jamien Sherwood Continues to Step Up

In Mosley’s absence, linebacker Jamien Sherwood will be tasked with stepping in for the third consecutive week. Sherwood has taken over as the defensive leader, wearing the headset to relay plays to the defense. He has shown promise in a high-pressure role, and his continued improvement will be crucial as the Jets face a high-powered Vikings offense.

Sherwood’s growth over the past few weeks has been encouraging for the Jets coaching staff, as he has filled in admirably for Mosley despite the increased responsibilities.

Positive Injury Updates for Other Key Players

While the Jets will likely be without Mosley, other key players are on track to return for Sunday’s game. Left tackle Tyron Smith, who missed practice earlier this week due to back-to-back veteran rest days, is expected to practice fully and play. Right guard Alijah Vera-Tucker, who appeared on the injury report with an ankle injury, is also likely to play after participating fully in practice.

Defensive tackle Leki Fotu, who spent the first four weeks of the season on injured reserve with a hamstring injury, has been a full participant in practice this week and could make his season debut against the Vikings. Fotu’s return would add much-needed depth to the defensive line, which has struggled at times to contain opposing offenses.

However, right tackle Morgan Moses has already been ruled out for Sunday’s game, though he did manage to get in his first practice on Thursday before the Jets traveled to London.

Preparations in London

The Jets have set up their practice facility at a team hotel just outside of London as they prepare for their third game on international soil. Their last trip to London in 2021 resulted in a loss to the Atlanta Falcons, also at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, where they will face the Vikings this Sunday.

Despite the travel challenges, the Jets are focused on breaking their London losing streak and getting back on track with a win, even as they deal with key injuries on both sides of the ball. The team’s depth will be tested, but players like Sherwood and Fotu will have an opportunity to step up and make an impact.