Jets' Starting Left Tackle Lands on PUP List

Grizzled veteran still working way back from torn rotator cuff

New York Jets' fans did not have the chance to watch veteran left tackle Duane Brown in the first training camp practice open to spectators on Saturday.

The 16th-year pro was absent during Thursday and Friday's sessions while dealing with a "personal" matter according to head coach Robert Saleh. Brown reported to the facility on Saturday, but wasn't ready to hit the field.

Following practice, the Jets placed the returning starter on the Active/PUP list. Brown, who turns 38 years old late next month, is still recovering from offseason shoulder surgery.

Players under the "physically unable to perform" designation cannot participate in practice, but are permitted to work off to the side. 

On Thursday, Saleh suggested that Brown wouldn't be out much longer once returning from his excused absence. 

"Yeah, he’s getting closer [health wise]," said Saleh.

Brown, who signed a two-year deal with the Jets last August, missed the first four games of the 2022 campaign before making 12 starts while playing through a torn rotator cuff.

"Torn rotator cuff is not an easy thing to play on. I felt like I produced. It wasn't who I am, but I felt like I produced pretty good," said Brown while addressing reporters during OTAs.

The 6-foot-4 bookend had made 33 consecutive starts for the Seattle Seahawks prior to landing with the Jets. Brown has made 215 career starts since being drafted by the Houston Texans with the No. 26 overall selection in 2008.

"He won the first annual Selfless Warrior Award for the team in terms of just what he sacrificed," said Saleh last month. "He stepped on the field, played as many games as he possibly could with a torn rotator cuff and did a really nice job."

Brown will likely have to fend off a challenge from Mekhi Becton for left tackle duties, but proved valuable in that spot last season.

Jets place OT Duane Brown on PUP listhttps://t.co/i2atXu6EGY pic.twitter.com/AD6yEVtAdU

— Around The NFL (@AroundTheNFL) July 22, 2023

READ MORE:

Jets' Offseason Addition: Gadget Player or Every-Down Receiver?

Jets' Rookie Edge Rusher Sidelined for Friday's Practice

Saleh Provides Injury Update on Jets' Four PUP Players

Sports Illustrated Selects 'X-Factor' for Jets

'Super Bowl Window' Open for Jets, But How Long?