Erik Ainge News

Jets' Kris Jenkins expected back against Cardinals

Jets nose tackle Kris Jenkins didn't practice Wednesday because of a back injury, but he's expected to play Sunday against the Cardinals, according to Eric Mangini.

That's good news for the Jets' defense, which sagged against the run once Jenkins left Monday night's loss in San Diego. Sidelined in the first quarter, Jenkins said he was "real close" to returning.
YOUR BRUSH WITH BROADWAY JOE?

"If I would've had to, or if I felt like I absolutely needed to get back out there, I would've had to sacrifice myself a little bit and deal with the pain," he said. "It was a call on the sideline and I had to roll with it."

Jenkins refused to discuss the specifics, but he said he's dealt with a back problem in the past, adding, "I know how to get through it."

Even though he didn't participate in team drills, Jenkins was in uniform and did some agility work.

TO BOOT: Punter Ben Graham, who was re-signed four days after he was released, said it was weird coming back to the Jets.

"How would you feel being fired from your job, and being re-hired three or four days later?" he asked. "It's awkward."
PHOTO GALLERY: JETS BLOWN OUT IN SAN DIEGO

From all indications, Graham will punt against the Cards. Reggie Hodges (thigh), who got hurt in practice after being signed to replace Graham, was limited in practice.

Graham happened to be in San Diego, working out at a high school field with fellow Aussie and former Chargers punter Darren Bennett, when the Jets contacted him about punting against the Chargers. The Jets called Bennett's wife, who tracked them down on the field.

The Jets re-signed Graham at the veterans' minimum, $520,000 - $150,000 less than his previous, non-guaranteed salary for 2008. That breaks down to a $9,000 pay cut per game....Placekicker Mike Nugent (thigh) was ruled out for the third straight game....Even future Hall of Famers abide by Mangini's edict about not discussing injuries. Brett Favre, talking about his sprained ankle, said he deferred injury-related questions to Mangini....DB Justin Miller (toe) was limited.

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