Giacomini, McLendon among 6 Jets ruled out vs. 49ers
FLORHAM PARK, N.J. (AP) New York Jets right tackle Breno Giacomini and defensive tackle Steve McLendon were among six players ruled out Friday for the game at San Francisco on Sunday.
Linebacker Lorenzo Mauldin, wide receiver Jalin Marshall, cornerback Antonio Allen and running back Khiry Robinson also will not play because of injuries. Defensive end Muhammad Wilkerson is questionable to play with an injured ankle.
Giacomini is dealing with back, shoulder and calf ailments - although he says the calf is the main issue. Brent Qvale will start in his place.
''I feel pretty banged up,'' said Giacomini, who missed training camp and the first seven games with a back strain.
''This is my worst year, as far as injuries,'' he said. ''I've been kind of lucky my whole career, but this year has been non-stop.''
McLendon will miss his second straight game with a hamstring injury, as will Mauldin (ankle).
Marshall and Allen have concussions, while the recently re-signed Robinson is still recovering from breaking his leg in the preseason.
With Marshall out and Jeremy Ross and C.J. Spiller cut earlier this week, coach Todd Bowles said Marcus Williams and Nick Marshall are in the conversation to return kickoffs and punts. Brandon Marshall has lobbied to help out on special teams, and Bowles said ''he's considered.'' Bowles wouldn't reveal who would serve in that role, but Nick Marshall has experience with both the Jets and Jaguars.
Bowles said ''there's a good chance'' wide receiver Devin Smith could be active for the first time since tearing a knee ligament in a game last December. A second-round pick out of Ohio State last year, the speedy Smith could potentially also be in the mix to return kicks.
Safety Calvin Pryor was a full participant at practice after being cleared through the NFL's concussion protocol. He was injured against New England two weeks ago and sat out against Indianapolis last Monday night.
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