Stevie Johnson did not practice on Wednesday and appears likely to be out Sunday against the Jets.
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While the Jets have their own injury issues to worry about, namely the status of wide receiver Jeremy Kerley, the Bills are in much worse shape as they head into Sunday’s game.
Wide receivers Stevie Johnson and Robert Woods as well as safety Da’Norris Searcy were all nonparticipants at practice on Wednesday.
Johnson, arguably the Bills’ top playmaker, was expected to be limited in practice on Wednesday with a groin injury but instead he was forced to sit out practice and looks doubtful for this weekend. The possible absence of Johnson is good news for Jets cornerback Antonio Cromartie, who struggled in Week 3 against the wide receiver as he allowed six catches for 86 yards. The rookie Woods is third on the team with 26 receptions for 349 yards with two touchdowns and his ankle injury will also likely keep him out of the upcoming game.
The loss of Searcy is a blow to the backend as the Bills safety is third on the team with 57 tackles and also has four passes defended.
As far as the Jets go, Kerley appears unlikely to play. He missed another day of practice on Wednesday following his elbow injury in the Week 9 win over the Saints. But the good news is wideout Stephen Hill (foot, knee) and tight end Kellen Winslow were limited in practice, with both players likely to play.
In addition, Santonio Holmes was limited as he looks to return from a Week 4 hamstring injury.
“He had a major hamstring injury; it was the worst one we’ve had this year by far. He was trying to come back. He did a great job of rehab. I think at the end, he got closer and closer,” head coach Rex Ryan said. “Could he have played against New Orleans? I mean, if it was the Super Bowl, maybe, but I’m not sure of that. He kept working. I think now he’s in a good spot; he’s ready to go. In my opinion, he’ll play. We’ll see as the week goes on but I feel good.”
Tight end Jeff Cumberland practiced in full on Wednesday as his concussion symptoms from two weeks ago have abated. He’s passed all concussion tests needed to play. As far Sunday goes, Cumberland is optimistic he will play.
“That’s the plan right now,” he told Metro.
Follow Jets beat writer Kristian Dyer on Twitter @KristianRDyer.
