The New York Jets have added veteran wide receiver Sterling Shepard to their practice squad as they respond to an injury affecting rookie Omar Cooper Jr.
Cooper, the Jets' first-round pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, suffered an ankle injury during New York's Week 1 victory over Tennessee.
Sterling Shepard returns to New York
Shepard is very familiar with the New York market after spending his first eight NFL seasons with the Giants.
The 33-year-old receiver spent the previous two seasons with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and briefly joined Houston during the current campaign before returning to the market.
Shepard has recorded 443 career receptions for 4,800 yards and 25 touchdowns. His experience could provide valuable depth alongside Garrett Wilson and Adonai Mitchell.
Jets adjust after Cooper's injury
Cooper was one of New York's major investments in the 2026 NFL Draft and was expected to contribute immediately as a rookie.
With his availability now uncertain, the Jets moved quickly to add an experienced receiver while they evaluate the full impact of the injury.
Shepard now has an opportunity to revive his career in New York and compete for a role in the Jets' receiving rotation.