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On what should have been a relaxing Sunday for the Jets, the team received devastating news: cornerback Kris Boyd had been shot. The incident occurred in the early hours after Boyd had spent time at Sei Less, a restaurant in Midtown. Following the shooting, he was transported to Bellevue Hospital, where he remains in critical but stable condition.
The gravity of the situation weighed heavily on the players, many of whom reflected on their own experiences with loss within the sport. The following day brought an emotional response as teammates grappled with the implications of Boyd’s injury.
Emotional responses from teammates
Defensive tackle Harrison Phillips was particularly affected by the news. During a Zoom call with the media, he described a feeling akin to post-traumatic stress disorder when recalling the loss of former teammate Khyree Jackson in a tragic car accident last summer. Phillips stated, “I almost felt a wave of memories flooding back, reminding me of the fragility of life and the pain of losing someone you care about. My thoughts immediately went to Kris and his family, especially since he just welcomed a new baby into the world. I took to social media to share my prayers, hoping that others would join me in sending positive energy his way.”
Teammate Jeremy Ruckert shared insights into the atmosphere in the locker room. He noted that the team was together at their facility when they first learned about Boyd’s situation, describing the moment as shocking and heartbreaking. “It’s devastating news,” Ruckert said, adding, “We are all incredibly grateful that the situation isn’t more severe, especially for his family during this joyous time of welcoming a newborn.”
Kris Boyd’s journey in the NFL
Kris Boyd, 29, joined the Jets this season after brief stints with the Arizona Cardinals and the Houston Texans. Prior to that, he spent four years with the Minnesota Vikings after being selected in the seventh round of the 2019 NFL Draft. The Jets organization issued a brief statement acknowledging the situation but refrained from making further comments, respecting the ongoing circumstances surrounding Boyd’s health.
Upcoming changes for the Jets
As the Jets navigate this challenging time, they are also preparing for potential roster changes. Reports from NFL Network indicate that defensive tackle Khalen Saunders, a two-time Super Bowl champion, is expected to join the team. This addition comes in light of Quinnen Williams’ recent trade to the Dallas Cowboys, leaving a gap in the defensive lineup that Coach Aaron Glenn will need to address.
As the Jets focus on their upcoming games, the impact of Boyd’s injury resonates throughout the locker room. Players are uniting to support him while being reminded of the unpredictable nature of life in professional sports. While they strive to maintain their competitive edge on the field, the well-being of their teammate remains a top priority.
A team united in support
The shooting incident involving Kris Boyd has shaken the foundation of the Jets, but it has also united the players in an unforeseen way. As they rally around their teammate, each player recognizes the importance of solidarity and support. The Jets community is now focused on sending positive thoughts and prayers to Boyd and his family during this difficult time. The resilience of the team will be tested, but their commitment to each other remains unwavering.