The New York Jets defense suffered a huge blow Friday, when safety Jim Leonhard suffered a severe shin injury during a practice collision.
Leonhard, the glue to the secondary, won't play Monday night in New England, Jets coach Rex Ryan announced.
"Terrible news," Ryan said, clearly shaken.
Ryan said he's "assuming" there is a fracture, but test results weren't immediately available. Ryan called it a "severe" injury.
Leonhard collided with receiver Patrick Turner during a team drill. The Jets will start Brodney Pool and Eric Smith at safety.
Leonhard is valuable because, among other reasons, he calls the defensive signals. He's also the No. 1 punt returner.
Ryan still tried to be confident.
"Do I still think we'll win the game? Absolutely," he said.
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