EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. -- In a surprising turn of events, the New York Jets fought valiantly against the New England Patriots in their 24-3 victory on Thursday night, but without the presence of their star middle linebacker, C.J. Mosley.

This marked just the second game he has missed in over three seasons, with the previous absence occurring back in 2021 against the same rival.

Mosley is currently dealing with a bone bruise on his right big toe, an injury that he sustained during the Jets’ thrilling 24-17 victory over the Tennessee Titans last Sunday.

Although he initially attempted to play through the pain, he left the game early in the second quarter and subsequently did not participate in any practices leading up to Thursday's matchup, leaving him as one of the inactive players.

In Mosley’s absence, Jamien Sherwood stepped up to fill the critical role of signal-caller for the defense.

Jets head coach Robert Saleh expressed strong confidence in Sherwood's capabilities, stating, “[I'm] super comfortable with Jamien... He’s got elite mental speed and elite communication skills.”

This trust in Sherwood proved pivotal as he successfully managed the defensive calls and contributed significantly with five tackles in a strong showing from the Jets’ defense.

Mosley's last missed game was a harsh lesson for the Jets, as they suffered a devastating 54-13 defeat against the Patriots in 2021, during which Sherwood, then a rookie, struggled to hold the fort.

However, the second-year linebacker’s solid performance on Thursday night highlighted the growth he has undergone since that challenging outing.

At 32 years old, Mosley remains a cornerstone of the Jets’ defense, having earned five Pro Bowl selections and establishing himself as a key emotional leader within the team.

In the first two games of the current season, he tallied an impressive 12 tackles, showcasing his vital role in the Jets' defensive strategies.

As the Jets continue their campaign, all eyes will be on Mosley's recovery.

Will he return to lead the team in the next game? Fans are certainly hoping for a quick rebound. Stay tuned for more updates on this and other exciting developments in the NFL!