Jets Starting Slot CB Inactive, Rookie RB Debuts vs. Bills

Originally posted on FanNation Jets Country
By Ralph Ventre | Last updated 11/19/23

For the first time this season, rookie running back Israel Abanikanda is not amongst the New York Jets' gameday inactives.

The Brooklyn-born Abanikanda, a fifth-round draft pick, makes his NFL debut on Sunday afternoon against the Buffalo Bills in Orchard Park.

Meanwhile, the Jets will be without the services of starting slot cornerback Michael Carter II. After popping up on the injury report Saturday due to a hamstring issue, the third-year pro is not active.

Carter II was one of three Jets who carried a questionable tag heading into Sunday. The other two are up for the key divisional matchup. Receiver Garrett Wilson (elbow) and rookie edge rusher Will McDonald (ankle) will face the Bills despite being limited in practice this past week.

All ruled out on Friday, offensive tackle Billy Turner, backup linebacker Chazz Surratt and special teamer Sam Eguavoen are amongst the Green & White's seven inactives. Offensive tackle Austin Deculus, defensive end Carl Lawson and receiver Randall Cobb round out the list.

Cobb is a healthy scratch for the third week in a row. Undrafted rookie receiver Jason Brownlee suits up for the second time this season as does sixth-round linebacker Zaire Barnes. Rookie defensive back Jarrick Bernard-Converse is set for his first career appearance with Carter II unavailable.

Abanikanda put his explosive ability on display during the preseason. He totaled 113 rush yards and one touchdown on 25 carries in two-plus games. The 2022 Atlantic Coast Conference rushing champion suffered a thigh injury against Tampa Bay in the third preseason contest and has not played since.

Now, Abanikanda will try to provided a jolt to a Jets team that has dropped back-to-back games and has not reached the end zone in the last 11 quarters.