Overview
- Multiple outlets reported that the Jets signed Sterling Shepard to their practice squad on Tuesday, September 15, 2026, and also added receiver Tyler Johnson the same day.
- The signing was a direct response to Week 1 injuries that left the Jets thin at receiver after Omar Cooper Jr. suffered an ankle sprain and Tim Patrick was placed on injured reserve.
- Shepard, 33, brings immediate low-risk experience for slot and outside snaps and is considered a likely candidate for rapid elevation to the 53-man roster if the team needs game-day help.
- Across recent coverage reporters noted Shepard had a brief Texans training-camp stint this summer and spent 2024–25 with the Buccaneers before being released in final cuts.
- Shepard’s career line is 443 receptions for 4,800 yards and 25 receiving touchdowns and his long injury history will factor into how the Jets use him while younger players recover.