Antonio Cromartie hyperextended his knee

New York Jets cornerback Antonio Cromartie (31) breaks up a pass intended for Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Julio Jones (11) in the second half at the Georgia Dome. The Jets won 30-28. Mandatory Credit: Daniel Shirey-USA TODAY Sports

New York Jets star CB Antonio Cromartie suffered a knee injury during practice yesterday, and initial reports indicated that the injury was serious. The Jets were “concerned”, and Cromartie needed to undergo an MRI. Now, ESPN New York’s Rich Cimini reports that the MRI shows that Antonio Cromartie only suffered a hyperextended knee, and the injury is “not serious”.

While his status for this week’s game against the Pittsburgh Steelers is “uncertain”, the Jets certainly dodged a bullet with this one. Even though Antonio Cromartie has struggled so far this season and isn’t playing anywhere near the lights-out level that he was last year, Cromartie is still a very talented No. 1 CB and is extremely important to the Jets defense. Cro is the only Jets CB who can shadow a  top receiver, and he is clearly the best corner on the team. The Jets also need him as part of their defensive scheme, so it’s terrific news to hear that he isn’t going to be out for an extended period of time.

That said, his status for Sunday’s game is clearly up-in-the-air, and he will probably be a game-time decision. Since the injury occurred on Thursday, I would be surprised to see Cromartie out there on Sunday. He is still searching for his first pass defended this season, but his absence would be great news for Steelers No. 1 WR Antonio Brown.

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