FLORHAM PARK, N.J. -- New York Jets running back Breece Hall will miss the remainder of the preseason with a strained groin, but he's expected to be back for Week 1 against the Tennessee Titans.
Hall, who went down untouched Monday while running after a catch, will miss two to three weeks, according to coach Aaron Glenn, who was able to exhale after receiving the MRI results on Monday night.
"Knowing how important he is for what we're doing, it was really exciting to hear," Glenn told reporters Tuesday, saying Hall will be "ready for the regular season."
Glenn wasn't surprised by the news, as he had indicated Monday that the preliminary diagnosis didn't suggest a long-term injury. Still, it was good to get the confirmation. Hall, one of the team's most valuable players, has led the Jets in rushing in each of the past four seasons.
"It's definitely a relief," quarterback Geno Smith said. "We need Breece and [we're] praying for a speedy recovery from him. He's a big part of our offense and our team. He's a leader on our team and on our offense, and so his presence is felt when he's out there. So, we appreciate him and just hoping he comes back as soon as possible."
The Jets' backfield depth will be tested. Without Hall, it could put a strain on No. 2 back Braelon Allen, who underwent major knee surgery last season. Their No. 3 runner, Isaiah Davis, is out with a knee surgery, though he's expected for Week 1.
The only experienced backs on the depth chart are Allen and Kene Nwangwu, who doubles as a kickoff returner. Glenn doesn't anticipate a falloff. "We're not looking at [Allen] as a second team," Glenn said. "It's 1A, 1B with those guys."
Of course, the Jets gave Hall a three-year, $43.5 million contract for a reason. He rushed for a career-high 1,065 yards last season and is capable of being a big factor in the passing game.
Smith's health has emerged as a potential concern. He has a swollen left ankle from last week's joint practice session with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and he was scratched from the preseason opener last Friday night.
Glenn was noncommittal on whether Smith, who hasn't missed practice time, would play Friday night against the Pittsburgh Steelers. He said they have a "management plan" for Smith, though he didn't get into specifics.
"We want to make sure that we get our guys ready for Week 1, so whatever we have to do to be able to do that, that's what we're going to do," Glenn said. "If it's playing in this game because he feels up to it and he's ready to go and he wants to be with the other guys, let's go. If he's not playing because we want to continue to be cautious in that situation, we'll do that. But it's all about how he feels and then exactly how do we see this going moving forward?"
Smith is learning a new system, so game reps are important. If he doesn't start, the Jets again would turn to rookie Cade Klubnik, who played well in two series last week.