New York Jets Defensive Tackle Cleared For Week 13

The New York Jets defensive line will have one of its key cogs back in the rotation for Week 13's crucial game against the Minnesota Vikings. Defensive tackle Sheldon Rankins has been cleared from his elbow injury and is expected to play on Sunday.

DT Sheldon Rankins (elbow) has been cleared and will play Sunday. Jets get back one of their starting front four. #Jets
— Rich Cimini (@RichCimini) December 2, 2022

Rankins has been unavailable since injuring his elbow in the Jets' surprising Week 9 20-17 win over the Buffalo Bills. He had started nine games for the Jets this season, totalling 25 tackles, three tackles for loss, and two sacks.

Rankins' return should provide the Jets with another option in a solid defensive line rotation that has propelled the team to the fifth-ranked scoring defense. At 7-4, the Jets have a solid chance at the playoffs, but if they want a chance at winning the ultra-competitive AFC East, they'll need to keep up with the 8-3 Miami Dolphins and the 9-3 Buffalo Bills. A win over the 9-2 Vikings could go a long way.

Rankins joined the Jets as a free agent ahead of the 2021 season on a two-year, $11 million deal. He served in a rotational role in his first year with the team, starting three of his 16 appearances and totalling 737 snaps. He has increased his role and effectiveness with the team this year, earning a 74.5 overall grade from Pro Football Focus for his efforts this season.