The Jets received news today actually relating to football with the return to practice of rookie wide receiver Stephen Hill.
Having missed practice the past two days due to illness, Hill now looks certain to play Sunday in St. Louis. The rookie has been plagued with some bad drops this year but nonetheless is a welcome addition to a team that failed to score an offensive touchdown last Sunday in Seattle. Head coach Rex Ryan said he expects Hill to play on Sunday.
“I’m good, I will play on Sunday,” Hill said.
Hill’s progress has been derailed this season by hamstring injuries but he’s been relatively solid in acclimating to the NFL, despite the occasional dropped pass. Currently, he is sixth on the Jets roster in catches with 14 receptions for 196 yards. He also has a team-high three touchdown receptions.
During his two days out with what he called a flu, Hill still attended meetings and was able to practice in full on Friday. When asked if he was still medicated, Hill said “definitely.”
“This was fine. I already knew I was going to have to play regardless,” Hill said. “Good thing it wasn’t an injury, just a sickness.”
In other injury news, running back Joe McKnight said Thursday his high ankle sprain is feeling better and is “definitely ready to play on Sunday.” McKnight did not play last week in Seattle as a precaution.
“Feel good, had a good day of practice,” McKnight said. “Did a lot, feeling better. Feeling a whole lot better than I did last week.”
Also on the injured list the past three days has been backup quarterback Tim Tebow. A slight rib injury likely won’t keep Tebow out of his role in the Wildcat or special teams on Sunday — or whatever else the Jets might throw his direction.
“Just took a shot, get treatment,” Tebow said. “Not too big a deal.”
Follow Jets beat writer Kristian Dyer on Twitter @KristianRDyer.
