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Jets S Leonhard's status uncertain for New England

New York Jets' Jim Leonhard (36) sacks Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback David Garrard (9) during the third quarter of an NFL football game Sunday, Nov. 15, 2009, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)

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By DENNIS WASZAK Jr., The Associated Press 6:31 PM Wednesday, November 18, 2009

FLORHAM PARK, N.J. — Jets safety Jim Leonhard had three pins inserted into his broken right thumb and his arm is in a sling, leaving his status for New York's game against New England uncertain.

Coach Rex Ryan said Leonhard had surgery Monday night and didn't practice Wednesday, but wouldn't rule him out.

"He's got three screws, I believe, so if they can tighten them up for this game, we'll see," Ryan said. "He's a tough kid, I'm just telling you. The average guy, there's no way he plays. But Jim Leonhard's not an average guy."

If Leonhard can't play Sunday, Eric Smith would start in his place opposite Kerry Rhodes. Smith, who leads the team with 13 special teams tackles, has started 10 games and has four interceptions in three-plus seasons with the Jets.

"It's a good opportunity to get out and play and get some more reps on the field," Smith said. "Hopefully we get Jim back, but if not, I'm going to be ready to play."

Leonhard was injured during Maurice Jones-Drew's 33-yard touchdown run early in the first quarter of New York's 24-22 loss to Jacksonville on Sunday. He left briefly before returning with a cast on the hand, but was unable to handle his usual punt return duties.

Leonhard is third on the team with 58 tackles, and has one interception and 1½ sacks. He also makes the defensive calls, a duty that wouldfall to linebacker David Harris in Leonhard's absence.

"If there's any way possible of him playing, I wouldn't be shocked," Ryan said. "But right now with him in a sling or a cast or three screws in his thumb, it wouldn't look good for the common person."

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November 18, 2009 11:27 PM EST

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