Former Clemson Defensive Lineman Released by Jets

FLORHAM PARK, N.J. (ESPN) — Former Pro Bowl left tackle Ryan Clady, one of the New York Jets‘ key offseason acquisitions, was placed on injured reserve Wednesday with a torn rotator cuff. It ends his season and likely his Jets career.

Perhaps looking for a spark, the Jets (3-6) made a series of roster moves, including the release of disappointing defensive end Jarvis Jenkins.

They also activated former second-round wide receiver Devin Smith from the physically unable to perform list and signed defensive lineman Anthony Johnson from the New England Patriots‘ practice squad.

Clady had been battling the injury for a few weeks. He dressed Sunday for the loss against the Miami Dolphins, but he didn’t play a single snap. He was replaced by Ben Ijalana, who was informed last week he’d be the left tackle for the remainder of the season.

The Jets traded for the oft-injured Clady in April after the sudden retirement of D’Brickashaw Ferguson, one of the most durable players in franchise history. He didn’t miss a single game or practice in his 10-year career.

They traded a fifth-round pick to the Denver Broncos, receiving a seventh-rounder in return, hoping that Clady, 30, could shake off his injury problems. He missed 30 of 48 games from 2013 to 2015 due to knee and foot injuries.

As it turned out, he couldn’t stay healthy. He lasted only eight games, performing at only a mediocre level. His contract includes an option for 2017, but the cap charge is $10 million, meaning it’s highly unlikely he’ll be back.

The Jets signed Jenkins to a two-year, $6 million contract in free agency (including $3 million guaranteed), expecting him to be a key backup in their defensive-line rotation. That didn’t happen.

Jenkins played only 115 defensive snaps in nine games, registering only 10 tackles and no sacks. He started last week because regulars Sheldon Richardsonand Muhammad Wilkerson were benched for the first quarter due to disciplinary reasons.

The Jets had to activate Smith this week or else he would’ve gone on injured reserve, ending his season. His rookie season was washed out by injuries, including an ACL tear in December. He caught nine passes for 115 yards and a touchdown. He likely will be active Sunday against the Los Angeles.