By Sunday 
The New York Jets woke up to devastating news this week as cornerback and special teams ace Kris Boyd fights for his life following a shocking early-morning shooting in Manhattan. What should have been a quiet, off-day weekend quickly spiraled into chaos, leaving teammates, fans, and the entire NFL community stunned.
A Search for Answers in Midtown Manhattan
According to New York police, the shooting occurred just after 2 a.m. on Sunday outside a business on West 38th Street near Seventh Avenue. Authorities released surveillance photos of a man wanted in connection with the attack and are urging the public to help identify him.
Reports say Boyd was involved in some kind of dispute before the suspect fired two shots, striking the 29-year-old defensive back. No other injuries were reported, and investigators have not yet established a motive.
As of Monday, Boyd remains in critical but stable condition, per ESPN — a small but hopeful sign as doctors continue to monitor him.
Teammates Ask for Prayers
While the Jets organization has kept its comments brief — saying only that they are “aware of the situation involving Kris Boyd” — players have not held back.
Linebacker Jermaine Johnson took to X with a heartfelt plea:
“Everybody please send prayers to my brother and teammate Kris Boyd and his family!!! Lord please hold your healing hand over Kris and guide him back to health and safety…Lord I ask that you please just get him through this safely. In your name, Amen.”
It’s clear the locker room is shaken. Boyd hasn’t even had the chance to suit up this season, having been placed on injured reserve in August, but his presence and energy were felt from the moment he arrived.
Boyd’s NFL Journey
This is Boyd’s first season with the Jets and his first under new head coach Aaron Glenn — the former Lions defensive coordinator who had big plans for him on special teams. Before landing in New York, Boyd spent four seasons with the Minnesota Vikings, who drafted him in the seventh round out of Texas back in 2019. He also had brief stints with the Cardinals and Texans, carving out a reputation as a tough, reliable role player.
That career, that momentum, and that opportunity now hang in the balance as he battles to recover.
A Franchise Already Under Pressure
The timing couldn’t be worse for a Jets team still reeling from a loss to the Patriots on Thursday Night Football. The organization has been searching for stability, direction, and identity — and this horrifying off-field crisis adds yet another layer of stress to an already-turbulent season.
Right now, though, none of that matters as much as Boyd’s health.
What Happens Next
Police continue to search for the suspect, working off surveillance footage and tips from the public. As the investigation moves forward, the football world watches and waits, hoping the man responsible is quickly identified and brought into custody.
But above all, everyone is hoping Kris Boyd pulls through.