Jets make three 2023 draft picks inactive for season opener vs. 49ers

The New York Jets have tabbed seven players as inactive for the Monday Night Football season opener at the San Francisco 49ers . All seven inactives are players on rookie contracts, including undrafted first-year defensive linemen Eric Watts and Leonard Taylor. Rookie tight end Brenden Bates, who was claimed off waivers from the Chicago Bears after final cuts, will also have to wait to make his NFL debut.

Backup offensive lineman Max Mitchell, a 2022 fourth-round draft pick, is the most experienced name in the group. He has 20 career appearances to his credit. Three 2023 Day 3 draft picks aren't dressed for the 2024 lid-lifter as running back Israel Abanikanda, offensive tackle Carter Warren and cornerback Jarrick Bernard-Converse are all down in Week 1.

Mitchell (shoulder) and Bernard-Converse (groin) are both coming off injuries but were full participants in practice this past week. With Haason Reddick holding out due to a contract dispute and Bates still becoming acclimated to the organization, the Jets elevated two veterans from the Practice Squad for Monday Night Football. Tight end Anthony Firkser will likely see TE3 reps while defensive end Jalyn Holmes provides another piece for the rotation.

Jets' Inactives (Week 1) RB Israel Abanikanda TE Brenden Bates CB Jarrick Bernard-Converse OL Max Mitchell DL Leonard Taylor OL Carter Warren DL Eric Watts More New York Jets News: • Jets add former Packers' center, Dolphins' linebacker to active roster • Jets, Aaron Rodgers predicted to start slow in MNF opener vs. 49ers • Jets' Week 1 opponent trending toward fantasy bust status • Aaron Rodgers must face last player who sacked him in MNF opener • Jets' offensive coordinator explains what makes Breece Hall rare breed.