Raiders Catch Major Break as Jets Rule Out Two Defenders, Third Doubtful

The Las Vegas Raiders will face a severely depleted New York Jets defensive front when the teams meet Sunday at MetLife Stadium.

New York ruled out edge rusher Joseph Ossai and defensive tackle T'Vondre Sweat on Friday, while rookie pass rusher David Bailey is listed as doubtful with a groin injury.

All three defenders missed practice Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, leaving the Jets without two key contributors and likely a third.

Bailey's potential absence is particularly significant.

The second overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft leads New York with 5.5 sacks through seven games.

Jets coach Aaron Glenn acknowledged Friday that Bailey is unlikely to play, although a final decision could come closer to kickoff.

According to the Jets' official injury report, Bailey is dealing with a groin injury, while Ossai has an ankle injury and Sweat is sidelined with a knee problem.

New York's defensive injuries could be particularly important for a Raiders offense that has struggled to establish a consistent rushing attack.

Las Vegas ranks 31st in the NFL in rushing, averaging just 74.7 yards per game through seven games.

Running back Ashton Jeanty has been at the center of those struggles.

The second-year back has rushed for 328 yards and one touchdown on 106 carries, averaging just 3.1 yards per attempt.

His difficulties have been particularly evident when trying to sustain drives. Jeanty has produced just 15 rushing first downs, the fewest among NFL running backs with at least 90 carries, as previously reported by Roundtable.

Rookie Mike Washington Jr. has provided a more productive alternative in limited opportunities.

The fourth-round pick has averaged 4.9 yards per carry, gaining 195 yards on 40 attempts.

Washington's early production has stood out despite the team's broader offensive struggles.

With the Jets missing multiple defensive linemen, Las Vegas could have an opportunity to improve its ground game.

The Raiders also have questions along their offensive line.

Guard Jackson Powers-Johnson is questionable with a back injury after missing Thursday's practice and returning on a limited basis Friday.

The offensive line has been an ongoing concern for Las Vegas, which has struggled to create running lanes and protect quarterback Kirk Cousins.

New York's injuries could ease some of that pressure, although the Jets still have other defensive players capable of disrupting the Raiders' offense.

Sunday's matchup presents a chance for the Raiders to revive their struggling ground game against an injury-depleted defensive front.