Another marquee name in the National Football League will not play this season.
Per a report from ESPN’s Rich Crimini, who covers the New York Jets, linebacker C.J. Mosley has become the latest player to opt out for the coming fall. He was set to return for the 2020 campaign — after missing 14 games with a groin injury last year — however, health concerns within his family are weighing heavily on him.
Mosley is the fourth former University of Alabama standout to opt out, joining Dont’a Hightower (Patriots), Chance Warmack (Seahawks) and Andre Smith (Ravens).
BREAKING: Jets LB CJ Mosley has decided to opt out for 2020 due to family health concerns, sources tell ESPN. #Jets
— Rich Cimini (@RichCimini) August 1, 2020
This is a huge blow to the Jets, as it loses the captain of its defense. The franchise recently traded safety Jamal Adams to the Seattle Seahawks.
Since being taken in the first round (No. 17) of the 2014 NFL Draft, Mosley has been stellar.
He’s totaled 588 career tackles, 8.5 sacks, 37 pass breakups, 10 interceptions, six forced fumbles, five fumble recoveries and one touchdown in 79 games.
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The 6-foot-2, 250-pounder played his first four seasons (2014-18) with the Baltimore Ravens, prior to signing with the Jets during free agency in 2019. He inked a five-year deal worth $85 million and played well in his first two games with the team, until the groin injury occurred.
Mosley has been selected to four NFL Pro Bowls (2014, 2016-18) and was a two-time national champion at Alabama (2011-12).
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Stephen M. Smith is the managing editor and senior writer for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @CoachingMSmith.
