Injuries Are Piling Up for the Jets

The New York Jets, in a three-way tie with Miami and New England for the AFC East lead at 8-5, lost left tackle Jumbo Elliott (ruptured Achilles’ tendon) for the rest of the season while right tackle David Williams (back spasms) and cornerback Aaron Glenn (sprained ankle) could be sidelined for Sunday’s game against Indianapolis.

*

Troubled former St. Louis Ram running back Lawrence Phillips met with Miami Coach Jimmy Johnson at the Dolphin training facility but no decision was announced on his status.

“I think Coach Johnson came to the conclusion Lawrence Phillips is not the bad guy he may be painted to be,” Phillips’ agent, Steve Feldman, said. “And I think Lawrence Phillips got a good appreciation for Jimmy Johnson’s mentality and the direction he’s taking his team.”

Phillips, who has been plagued by personal and legal problems, led the Rams in rushing when they released him Nov. 20 for disciplinary reasons. He was the No. 6 overall pick in the 1996 draft.

*

Vinny Testaverde will remain the starting quarterback for the Baltimore Ravens, despite an impressive relief appearance by Eric Zeier. . . . Marcus Robertson, who has returned a fumble for a touchdown in each of the Tennessee Oilers’ last two games, had arthroscopic surgery on his right knee and will be sidelined indefinitely.