New York Jets defensive end Carl Lawson, the team's biggest free-agent signing, will miss the 2021 season after fracturing his left Achilles tendon on Thursday.
The injury occurred during the red zone period in a joint exercise between the Jets and Green Bay Packers at the Packers' facility. Several players took their knees and practice went badly quiet as medical personnel turned to Lawson.
Safety Zane Lewis also suffered a season-end injury during joint practice as the Jets said he tore a patella tendon and sprained an MCL.
Defensive tackle Sheldon Rankins (knee) and wide receiver Denzel Mims (hip) were also injured on Thursday, but their injuries are considered minor and both players are day-to-day, the Jets said.
Lawson's season-ending injury is a major blow to the Jets, who were counting on him as the primary leading threat in their new 4-3 front. He was a force to be reckoned with in training-camp practices.
Lawson addressed the news of the injury on Instagram with an optimistic tone.
The loss of Lawson would force the Jets to rework their defensive line under new head coach Robert Saleh, who spent the last four seasons as defensive coordinator for the San Francisco 49ers.
Saleh is no stranger to dealing with injuries and is still fielding a strong defense. 49th was number 5 in total yards allowed last season, despite the loss of Nick Bossa, Solomon Thomas, Dee Ford, Richard Sherman and Ezekiel Ansa due to injuries.
Bryce Huff, an adrift free agent based out of Memphis last year, is a favorite to have the opportunity to replace Lawson as the primary pass-rusher for the Jets.
The Jets signed Lawson to a three-year, $45 million contract in March. He spent his first four seasons with the Cincinnati Bengals.
Lawson has a history of major injuries. He tore his left ACL at Auburn in 2014, and he tore his right ACL in 2018 with the Bengals.