Jets get some good news on Eric Decker
New York Jets wide receiver Eric Decker (87) is congratulated after catching a touchdown pass against the Indianapolis Colts in the first half of an NFL game in Indianapolis, Monday, Sept. 21, 2015. Credit: AP / Darron Cummings
The Jets will receive an offensive boost after their struggles against the Eagles last week. They're just not sure how much of a boost it will be.
Jets wide receiver Eric Decker practiced in a limited capacity after missing last week's game with a left knee injury, but it's unsure if he'll be ready for Sunday's game against the Miami Dolphins in London, coach Todd Bowles said. Meanwhile, running back Chris Ivory participated in a full practice and is expected to play. Ivory (quad) also did not play last week.
Decker, who didn't practice Wednesday, sprained a knee ligament against the Colts and jogged lightly during the portion of practice open to the media.
"I'll be encouraged if he does more tomorrow," Bowles said. "I don't know [if he'll play]. It's up in the air right now. I have to see a little more but he was limited today, so that was encouraging . . . He's a starting receiver [but] I felt the other guys stepped up admirably and did a good job."
Decker had eight catches for 97 yards and a touchdown against the Colts before heading to the locker room in the fourth quarter. But his traveling to London is at least a sign that the Jets will consider slotting him in. That's good news for Brandon Marshall, who had to deal with double teams in last week's game against the Eagles and could use the relief that Decker and Ivory's power running provide.
"It limits you some," offensive coordinator Chan Gailey said. "You've still got good players. They're professional players. Other guys have to step up and play."
Laura Albanese is a reporter, feature writer and columnist covering local professional sports teams; she began at Newsday in 2007 as an intern.
