From New York Jets On SI · · 3m
Jets add Sterling Shepard as injuries thin receiver depth
New York signs the veteran wideout to the practice squad after Omar Cooper Jr.'s ankle injury leaves them short on options.
In brief
New York signs the veteran wideout to the practice squad after Omar Cooper Jr.'s ankle injury leaves them short on options. The Jets signed Sterling Shepard to their practice squad and may promote him for Week 2 against the Packers after losing rookie Omar Cooper Jr. to injury. Originally reported by New York Jets On…
Jets face Packers in Week 2
New York hosts Green Bay in a few days. Coach Aaron Glenn needs momentum after the Packers dropped their opener.
Injuries hit Jets secondary and receivers
Safety Minkah Fitzpatrick will miss weeks with a groin injury. Rookie receiver Omar Cooper Jr. is week-to-week with an ankle problem.
Jets work out multiple receivers
New York brought in several wideouts for tryouts on Tuesday. JuJu Smith-Schuster was among those who auditioned but didn't land the job.
Sterling Shepard joins practice squad
The Jets signed the veteran receiver after his workout. Shepard spent years with the Giants and is familiar with the New Jersey area.
Wilson and Mitchell shine in opener
Garrett Wilson and Adonai Mitchell combined for nine catches and 139 yards against Tennessee. They looked like one of the NFL's best receiver duos.
Depth receivers struggle in Week 1
Isaiah Williams had one catch for seven yards. Arian Smith dropped his only target, and tight ends combined for just 23 yards.
Shepard brings extensive experience
The 33-year-old has played 117 regular-season games with 81 starts. His career stats include 443 catches for 4,800 yards and 25 touchdowns.
Solid production with Tampa last year
Shepard caught 39 passes for 371 yards and a touchdown in 13 games with the Buccaneers. He recorded 18 first downs, his most in four seasons.
Career-low drop rate in 2025
Shepard's 2.5% drop rate last season was the lowest of his 11-year career. He proved he can still be reliable despite his age.
Brief preseason stint with Houston
The Texans released Shepard on Aug. 30 after one exhibition game. He caught both targets for seven yards before the roster cut.
Shepard excels in the slot
He played 187 slot snaps for Tampa last season, third-most on the team. This could help offensive coordinator Frank Reich add depth in the middle of the field.
Possible promotion for Sunday's game
Shepard could be elevated to the active roster depending on practice this week. The Jets need experienced options with Cooper sidelined.
Week 2 depth chart takes shape
Wilson and Mitchell lead the group, followed by Isaiah Williams. Shepard would slot in fourth if promoted, with Arian Smith rounding out the five.
Packers limited Vikings receivers in Week 1
Green Bay held Minnesota's wideouts quiet except for Justin Jefferson. The Jets may need another body active to feel confident about their options.
At a glance
The Jets signed Sterling Shepard to their practice squad and may promote him for Week 2 against the Packers after losing rookie Omar Cooper Jr. to injury.
