Bryan

Thomas

It’s an indication that the Jets no longer view Thomas as the speed-rushing defensive end they hoped they were drafting in 2002.

Coach Herman Edwards said Thomas will probably miss two weeks.

Thomas has played well when given the chance this year. The Jets hope to have Abraham back for the playoffs.

The sack total equaled his career mark yesterday.

He’s played very well in the last month, the most extensive action of his career.

Thomas’ tremendous blend of size and speed could make him an IDP factor. He already has proven his ability to rush the passer. Thomas is also in the final year of his contract and playing for a potential big pay day.

The Jets learned of Thomas’ diagnosis on Monday, but waited until they had a corresponding roster move to make before officially ending his season. Undrafted free agent Eddie Jones will take his place on the roster. A 10-year veteran, Thomas last missed a game in 2004. His loss is a huge blow for an already struggling Jets’ pass rush. Now 32 years old, a torn Achilles is going to be a daunting, if not impossible, injury for Thomas to return from. Jamaal Westerman and Aaron Maybin will likely alternate snaps in his absence for the time being. Thomas has 419 tackles and 31 sacks in 145 career games.

Thomas missed the majority of last year, but expects to be ready to go by the start of the 2012 season. Turning 33 in June, Thomas is a poor bet to contribute significant snaps coming off a debilitating injury. The Jets should be aiming higher at outside linebacker.

Thomas can be an effective edge-setting outside linebacker when healthy, but he missed most of last season with a torn Achilles’ tendon and turns 33 years old in June. We would be somewhat surprised if Thomas had any 2012 impact.

The torn labrum wasn’t discovered until January, three months into Thomas’ rehab from Achilles’ surgery. Thomas estimates his labrum has been damaged for three years while his biceps has been torn for five years, leading to weakness in his upper arm. Considering the magnitude of his injuries, it’s surprising that the Jets guaranteed the 33-year-old $590,000 on a one-year deal.