Jets rookie wide receiver Arian Smith was a conspicuous name on the inactive list for Sunday’s win over the Falcons.
Smith, a fourth-round pick, had played in the first 11 games this season and even started five.
Jets coach Aaron Glenn would not say exactly why Smith was inactive, but it sounded like a disciplinary issue.
“With Arian, him not being active, that’ll be something that me and him will keep between us, just like I always do when things like that happen,” Glenn said. “You guys know I don’t really speak on those things and the players know that we’re going to keep that between ourselves. But I’ve said it before and I’m going to continue to say it, he’s a huge part of what we’re doing, and listen, we talked about, we’re going to move forward and get ready for him to play the rest of the season.”
Arian Smith is pictured during the Jets’ Nov. 23 game. AP
Smith has not had much impact as a rookie.
He has six catches for 47 yards and has also played a lot of special teams.
Smith’s role has been reduced on offense since the Jets traded for John Metchie III and Adonai Mitchell.
QB Justin Fields said last week that he had mixed feelings about a potential role as a gadget player who comes in and runs wildcat plays.
Fields said last week that coming off the bench cold can lead to soft tissue injuries.
Glenn was asked for his thoughts on using Fields in that kind of package.
“Listen, Justin is a huge part of what we’re doing,” Glenn said. “I mean, if Tyrod [Taylor] goes down, he’s going to be the guy, you know, and he knows that, so anything that we do with him as far as game prep, listen we keep those things inside within what we’re doing. So, and he understands that, and listen, he’s a team guy, I will tell you that. And I hope that answers your question, he’s the ultimate team guy and whatever he can do to help the team he will.”
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Glenn said the only injury in the game was to safety Tony Adams, who is dealing with a groin injury.