Who Should I Start? Jermaine Johnson or Kayvon Thibodeaux

Monday, September 16, 1:51 PM

New York Jets linebacker Jermaine Johnson (Achilles) confirmed on Monday that he suffered a season-ending torn Achilles in the Week 2 victory over the Tennessee Titans. The Jets feared this was the case when Johnson was forced to leave Sunday's contest, and now it is confirmed that they will not have Johnson for the rest of the year. It's an especially tough blow for a Jets defense that continues to be without All-Pro pass-rusher Haason Reddick as he continues his contract holdout into the regular season. The 25-year-old Johnson, a former first-round pick in 2022 out of Florida State, was a first-time Pro Bowler in 2023 while recording 55 total tackles, a career-high 7.5 sacks and an interception in 17 games. It's a notable loss for the Jets defense this year, but it shouldn't knock their defense/special teams unit from being a weekly play in fantasy lineups.

Saturday, November 23, 5:05 PM

New York Giants edge rusher Kayvon Thibodeaux (wrist) has been activated from injured reserve ahead of Week 12 versus the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The 23-year-old is technically listed as questionable, but he's expected to play on Sunday now that New York has elevated him to its 53-man roster. Thibodeaux, who is coming off two full practices, hasn't played since Week 5 against Seattle. Through a handful of contests earlier in the year, he registered 12 tackles and two sacks. His presence will be key as the Giants look to slow down Baker Mayfield and the Buccaneers this weekend.