Home
New York Jets, desperate for stability in a season derailed by injuries and inconsistency, have finally received a meaningful lift. As they prepare for a daunting Week 12 showdown on the road against the Baltimore Ravens, the franchise confirmed a significant roster development that could reshape their defensive outlook.
Marcelino McCrary-Ball cleared to return to practice
The Jets announced that linebacker Marcelino McCrary-Ball has been “designated” to return from injured reserve, marking the first major step toward reintegrating him into the active roster. This move officially triggers the team’s 21-day practice window, during which the Jets can evaluate his readiness.
If activated within that period, McCrary-Ball would be eligible to rejoin the team for the remainder of the season. Should they choose not to add him back before the window closes, his 2025 campaign would be over.
McCrary-Ball has been sidelined since September 23, when he suffered a hamstring injury during New York Jets’ Week 3 matchup against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Prior to the setback, he played an impactful rotational role. As Jets editorial contributor Susanna Weir outlined in the team’s official release,
“In three games this season, McCrary-Ball played 77 defensive snaps and 75 special teams snaps, recording 17 tackles.”
Welcome support for a thin linebacker unit
New York’s linebacker corps has endured a revolving door of injuries throughout the year, leaving the defense shorthanded and forcing younger, less experienced players into larger roles. McCrary-Ball’s return is more than just good timing—it’s a critical reinforcement.
At 26 years old, the former undrafted free agent has carved out a reputation for relentless energy and reliability, particularly on special teams. His versatility and physicality offer immediate value, especially for a defense that has struggled to generate consistency. The Jets have lacked depth in coverage, run support, and rotational playmaking—areas where McCrary-Ball can make an immediate impact once fully cleared.
Special teams remains a bright spot
Despite New York Jets’ disappointing 2-8 record—one that currently positions them for a top-five pick in the 2026 NFL Draft—not everything has gone wrong. New York’s special teams unit has quietly emerged as one of the most dynamic in the league.
Both placekicker Nick Folk and punter Austin McNamara are delivering standout seasons. In fact, the Jets recently made franchise history by scoring both a kickoff return touchdown and a punt return touchdown in the first quarter of the same game.
McCrary-Ball, who built much of his early NFL footing on special teams, fits seamlessly into this thriving unit. His return strengthens an area that has been one of New York’s few consistent advantages.
A timely boost before a challenging clash
With the Ravens boasting one of the league’s most balanced and explosive offenses, the Jets will need every available contributor on deck. While McCrary-Ball's availability for the game remains contingent on his practice performance and team evaluations, his return to the field is a promising sign at a moment when New York Jets need momentum more than ever.
ADVERTISEMENT
