New York Jets: LT Duane Brown ruled out for Week 1, rookie Max Mitchell will get the start

Aug 14, 2021; East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA; New York Jets offensive tackle George Fant (76) during the second half against the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports

After recent speculation regarding the health of New York Jets left tackle, Duane Brown, head coach Robert Saleh provided an update today.

Brown will not play Sunday for the New York Jets:

Saleh met with the media and shared that Brown will not go in Week 1 this Sunday with his shoulder injury. He further stated that Brown may even wind up on IR. To say the least, a tough break for the Jets.

The Jets were pinned back up against the wall to sign Brown during camp this summer following a second consecutive season-ending injury to Mekhi Becton. They ended up giving Brown a relatively big contract for an older player with the start of the season right around the corner. To lose him right before the first regular season game is quite the blow the Jets did not need.

Max Mitchell will start, George Fant back at LT:

Following Brown’s shoulder injury, the Jets now have more moving parts on their offensive line.

The Jets’ rookie fourth-round pick, Max Mitchell, will get the start in his first NFL game. The first-year player will slide in for the Jets at right tackle. Mitchell is a talented 22-year-old with the potential to develop. It will be exciting to see what he can give the Jets being thrown into what is a tough situation for him right away.

From there, reliable Jets veteran, George Fant will start where he is most comfortable, left tackle. Unfortunately, most of his recent work in practice was at right tackle. Luckily though, Fant is incredibly versatile and consistent for the Jets whenever, wherever.

This game was always going to be a challenge for the Jets, and it just got harder. Fant should provide stability over at left tackle. But, there are unknowns with Mitchell as such an inexperienced player. Hopefully, he can hold his own and limit mistakes. If so, it would certainly ideal for the Jets.