The NY Jets are currently in a tough battle with the Pittsburgh Steelers Football on Sunday evenings in a game that is absolutely must-win in every way. Now they may have lost their best offensive lineman.

Starting right guard Alijah Vera-Tucker left midway through the second quarter with what the Jets called an ankle injury. It is unclear exactly when Vera-Tucker sustained the injury, but he was replaced by substitute Xavier Newman late in the first half.

Vera-Tucker was seen walking to the locker room with trainers under her own power midway through the second quarter. The Jets have listed his return as questionable due to an ankle injury and have not provided any further updates at this time.

Given Vera-Tucker's injury history, particularly to her lower leg, this is obviously a cause for concern. The Jets could be without a significant portion of their offensive line.

Vera-Tucker has started all six games for the Jets at right guard this season, but has only started 12 games over the past two years due to multiple season-ending injuries.

A torn triceps sidelined Vera-Tucker for the remainder of the 2022 season just seven games into the year, and a torn Achilles tendon ended his 2023 season early after just five games.

It's this Achilles tendon injury that has some Jets fans worried, especially since Achilles tendon injuries can sometimes be listed as “ankle injuries” when first diagnosed.

The Jets can ill afford to lose Vera-Tucker for any length of time. Wes Schweitzer is still on injured reserve and players like Xavier Newman and Jake Hanson aren't particularly attractive starting options.

Newman, meanwhile, had to leave the game with what appeared to be a serious head/neck injury and was carted off the field. Hanson has stepped in as right-back while both Vera-Tucker and Newman were sidelined.

The Jets hope to get a positive update on Vera-Tucker's status in the second half. This article will be updated with further details as they become available.

*UPDATE: Vera-Tucker has been downgraded to doubtful to return.