Fitzpatrick says he meant Jets are beating themselves

Fitzpatrick addressed the wording controversy on November 5, after his comments following the Jets’ loss to Las Vegas were taken to mean that the team’s defensive errors were “Jets being Jets.” He said he was describing self-inflicted problems, including penalties and miscues, and that teammates understood his point. He said the issue had not stirred the locker room, but worried him because it could distract a team trying to win.

The Jets have lost six of their past seven games and three straight. Their most recent victory came against Cleveland on October 11. They are set to visit Kansas City as they try to halt the slide. The Chiefs, after opening the season with five wins, have lost their past two.

Wide receiver Garrett Wilson remained in concussion protocol and did not practice on November 5. Offensive coordinator Frank Reich said the team could not replace Wilson’s distinctive abilities, but had confidence in Adonai Mitchell and Omar Cooper Jr. and would adjust its approach to the available players. David Bailey, who had been limited by a groin injury, took part fully in practice.

Jets defensive coordinator Brian Duker said Kansas City tight end Travis Kelce may be used differently from Las Vegas tight end Brock Bowers, who had a big game against New York. Fitzpatrick said the team needed to focus on winning rather than revisiting the disputed remark.