Wayne Hunter to return to practice

Wayne Hunter will have to face the music.

The Jets right tackle will be at practice Wednesday, following his conspicuous absence at MetLife Stadium for "Family Night."

According to the team, Hunter was excused for "personal reasons." Rex Ryan refused to elaborate further when pressed about his conversation with Hunter.

LB Calvin Pace, who missed Tuesday's practice after getting a wisdom tooth pulled also will be on the field today, the coach confirmed.

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It doesn't appear backup QB Tim Tebow will get first-team snaps against Carolina. "We'll go with Mark (Sanchez), and then when it's time, we'll put Tebow (in) to close out the game," Ryan said. "Do I see them in there together? No, I don't see that."

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NT Sione Po'uha (back), WR Chaz Schilens (high ankle sprain) and S Eric Smith (knee) won't play Sunday vs. Carolina. Ryan is still hopeful WRs Santonio Holmes (rib/back) and Jeremy Kerley (hamstring) will be able to play.

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Ryan said he will consider practicing against another team next preseason. When it was brought up today that the Patriots and Buccaneers are facing each other, the Jets coach said he would like to do the same, but felt it wasn't good timing given the installation of their new offense. Ryan said the Ravens used to practice against the Redskins.

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The Jets will host MetLife Stadium employees at today’s practice.