Jets finalize 53-man roster but quarterback depth remains thin

The New York Jets finalized an initial 53-man roster late Tuesday but moved again within 24 hours, cutting veteran receiver Tyler Johnson and briefly waiving rookie quarterback Brady Cook before re-signing him to the practice squad, moves that leave the team thin at the quarterback position heading into the regular season. The roster trimming culminated in a series of transactions announced by the team and in league personnel notices on Tuesday and Wednesday at the team facility in Florham Park.

Coach Aaron Glenn and general manager Darren Mougey completed the mandated cuts that set the opening roster for the Glenn era, then pivoted quickly to further adjustments. The Jets claimed tight end Jelani Woods off waivers from Indianapolis as they sought to add size and blocking ability to an offense built around new starter Justin Fields. The team also placed defensive lineman Byron Cowart on injured reserve, ending his season.

The quarterback picture has become a central storyline. Justin Fields is the starter and Tyrod Taylor the lone backup on the 53-man roster after the club waived undrafted free agents Brady Cook and Adrian Martinez during final cuts. Cook, who played in all...