New York Jets cornerback Kris Boyd, known for his special teams contributions, sustained critical injuries during a shooting in midtown Manhattan early Sunday morning, as reported by various news sources. The incident occurred around 2 a.m. outside a business on West 38th Street near 7th Avenue, as confirmed by the New York Police Department. A 29-year-old man was shot in the abdomen and was subsequently rushed to Bellevue Hospital in critical condition, although now stable. At present, no arrests have been made, and the investigation is ongoing.
While the police did not officially disclose the victim’s identity, multiple media outlets identified the injured man as Kris Boyd. In response to the situation, a spokesperson for the Jets stated, “We are aware of the situation involving Kris Boyd and will not provide further comments at this time.” Boyd’s agent has not yet responded to inquiries regarding the incident.
Boyd, who had not played this season due to a shoulder injury that necessitated surgery and placed him on the injured reserve list in August, signed with the Jets as a free agent in March. His presence was expected to be significant in the team’s special teams unit under new coach Aaron Glenn and special teams coordinator Chris Banjo. Unfortunately, Boyd sustained the injury during a training camp practice on August 2 and was removed from the field on a cart after medical evaluation of his left shoulder.
Having been recognized as a standout in special teams during his previous six seasons in the NFL, including his recent tenure with the Houston Texans, Boyd gained attention during the Texans’ divisional playoff loss to the Kansas City Chiefs in January for his exuberant celebration after a forced fumble on a kickoff.
Beginning his professional career as a seventh-round pick by the Minnesota Vikings in 2019, Boyd spent his initial four seasons with the Vikings before transitioning to the Arizona Cardinals in 2023 and subsequently joining the Houston practice squad. Teammates took to social media on Sunday to request prayers for Boyd’s recovery and well-being, emphasizing his resilience and expressing solidarity with him and his family during this challenging time.