The New York Jets need rookie tight end Kenyon Sadiq (back) to keep becoming a focal point Sunday in Chicago, even after his limited practice participation this week. Sadiq enters the matchup off a seven-catch, 105-yard, one-touchdown performance against Detroit, and the Jets could need more production from him with multiple pass catchers sidelined or limited.
Locked On Jets host John Butchko argued that New York should make Sadiq a featured weapon rather than treating the Oregon product’s Week 3 breakout as more of a one-off. Butchko said the rookie’s speed and ability to create matchup problems give quarterback Geno Smith an element the offense should keep exploiting.
Sadiq’s role matters more because wide receiver Adonai Mitchell (finger) and tight end Mason Taylor (thumb) did not practice Thursday. The Jets also listed Sadiq as limited with a back injury, making his availability and workload worth monitoring as the week progresses. The club already has rookie wide receiver Omar Cooper Jr. on injured reserve.
The Chicago Bears present an opportunity for the Jets to continue leaning on the tight end position. Locked On Bears host Loren Cox said Chicago has shuffled its secondary because of injuries, while its defense has struggled at times to finish tackles against physical runners and receivers after the catch. Sadiq’s ability to turn shorter completions into explosive gains could give New York a way to counter pressure and create easier throws for Smith.
Butchko’s push to feature Sadiq also reflects the Jets’ larger Week 4 challenge: finding dependable answers around Smith while injuries reshape the offense. New York does not need the rookie to duplicate his 105-yard showing every week, but it needs an intentional plan to create favorable matchups for him if its other options remain compromised.
The Jets will release their final Week 4 injury report Friday before traveling to face Chicago on Sunday. Sadiq’s practice status will help determine whether New York can build its passing plan around its emerging rookie tight end.
Jets News and Notes
– Jets running back Breece Hall (quad) missed his second straight practice Thursday. Butchko expects Braelon Allen to receive a larger workload if Hall cannot play, giving New York a chance to test whether Allen can handle a lead-back role.
– Butchko predicted the Jets can end their 20-game interception drought against a Bears offense that will start either Case Keenum or Tyson Bagent at quarterback. New York’s ability to create an early takeaway could be especially important against a Chicago team expected to emphasize ball control.
