New York Jets rookie running back Chip Trayanum was transported to a local hospital following a frightening neck injury sustained during the final play of the first half against the New York Giants on Friday night at MetLife Stadium, according to reports from the Associated Press. The undrafted rookie out of Toledo was awake, alert, and exhibiting movement in all extremities after medical personnel carted him off the field during the preseason matchup.
Scary Scene at MetLife Stadium Before Halftime
The incident occurred with just 10 seconds remaining in the first half of the preseason contest, which ultimately ended in a 23-6 victory for the Giants. Rather than having quarterback Cade Klubnik take a knee to run out the clock, the Jets elected to run an offensive play.
Cade Klubnik handed the ball off to Chip Trayanum, who took barely a single step before absorbing an immediate hit from Giants defender Trace Ford. The collision initially appeared to be a standard, hard-fought football play. Trayanum fell backward, let the ball roll out of his hands, and appeared to reach toward a nearby teammate.
However, the situation quickly turned serious when the rookie running back remained flat on his back without making noticeable movements. Trainers and medical staff immediately rushed onto the field to attend to him as concerned teammates and coaches dropped to their knees in prayer around the fallen player.
Medical Response and Coach Aaron Glenn’s Update
After several minutes of careful evaluation on the turf, medical staff secured Trayanum in a neck brace and strapped him to a backboard. They loaded him onto a cart and drove him toward the stadium locker room. Observers noted that the running back appeared to be flexing both of his hands as medical personnel wheeled him off the field.
Following the game, Jets head coach Aaron Glenn provided a reassuring update regarding the rookie’s condition to reporters. “I think he’ll be just fine,” coach Aaron Glenn stated. “He’ll be just fine.”
The prompt response from medical teams at MetLife Stadium ensured that Trayanum received immediate evaluation before his transport to the hospital. The organization has not yet released a detailed medical bulletin regarding further diagnostic testing, but initial on-field signs provided significant relief to players and coaching staff alike.
Preseason Context and Roster Implications
For an undrafted rookie fighting for a permanent spot on an NFL roster, training camp and preseason games represent a narrow and intense window to prove value.
Trayanum joined the Jets following his collegiate career at Toledo, aiming to carve out a role in a crowded backfield. Preseason matchups routinely force coaching staffs to weigh the value of getting young players developmental snaps against the inherent physical risks of late-half play calls.
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