Jets injury report: Kenrick Ellis, Clyde Gates injuries test depth at already depleted spots

The New York Jets' depth is being seriously tested, as the team suffered a pair of injuries to backup players that had been forced into larger roles in their 24-17 loss to the Houston Texans.

Kenrick Ellis was already filling in for the injured starter Sione Pouha at nose tackle. Ellis hurt his knee in the fourth quarter and had to leave the game, and did not return. Next up for the Jets at the pivotal spot in the 3-4 defense was Damon Harrison, an undrafted rookie out of NAIA-school William Penn, appearing in his first career game. The extent of Ellis' injury is unknown.

Clyde Gates left the game after injuring his left shoulder, which was in a sling after the game. The second-year receiver out of Abiline Christian made only his second reception with the Jets last night, a 27-yarder, but the team is seriously depleted at the wide receiver spot. Gates was a third-stringer on the depth chart behind Stephen Hill and Chaz Schilens, but found itself with just Schilens, Jeremy Kerley, and new signing Jason Hill available at wide receiver Monday. The team played Antonio Cromartie at wide receiver, as much out of necessity as a desire to be tricky. It's unclear how serious Gates' injury is.

Also with an arm in his sling after the game was backup linebacker Josh Mauga. Mauga also did not return, but the starter at his weak-side spot, Bart Scott, was able to play despite nagging issues with his toe.

Center Nick Mangold left the game at one point after tweaking his ankle, but was able to return to action.