The New York Jets hope they aren't down a defensive back against the New England Patriots.
Backup cornerback Drew Coleman, the Jets' nickel back and a key special-teams player, injured a knee late in practice Thursday, and his status for the AFC Divisional Playoff Game was uncertain.
Jets coach Rex Ryan said Coleman was hurt at the end of the team's last drill of practice. The New York Daily Newsreported that an MRI didn't reveal any structural damage, but neither Ryan nor defensive coordinator Mike Pettine were sure if the injury would prevent Coleman from playing Sunday in Foxborough.
"Well, we'll see," Ryan said. "We don't know anything right now. He was just doing a drill and kind of went on the ground or something."
If Coleman can't play, rookie Kyle Wilson likely would be the main replacement at nickel back, although Pettine said it could be a committee of players -- including Marquice Cole, who had two interceptions in the regular-season finale against the Buffalo Bills, and Isaiah Trufant -- in the role.
"If he can't go, sure, it would be a blow," Pettine said of Coleman. "But, the one thing I think we feel pretty good about is our depth on the back end."
Wide receiver-kick returner Brad Smith (groin) was limited in practice Thursday, and his status also is uncertain. Smith, who ranked second in the NFL with 28.6 yards per return and two touchdowns, was injured during last Saturday's wild-card victory at Indianapolis.
Jets special teams coordinator Mike Westhoff said cornerback Antonio Cromartie would return kicks if Smith can't go, adding it could be a game-time decision.
"We're prepared to go without him," Westhoff said of Smith, "but we'd love to have him."
Cornerback Darrelle Revis (hamstring) and safety James Ihedigbo (knee/ankle) also were limited in practice Thursday, but both are expected to be fine for the game. Right guard Brandon Moore, who didn't practice Wednesday with a back issue, was a full participant.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
