Like teammate Mecole Hardman, veteran defensive lineman Carl Lawson was among the Jets on the inactive list for last week’s game against the Broncos.
Unlike Hardman one day earlier, Lawson didn’t want to discuss his diminished role with the team or possibly being moved before the Oct. 31 trade deadline.
“I don’t know anything about that, I’m just focused on the next game and competing. I’m not really focused on any of that other stuff,” Lawson told The Post after Thursday’s practice. “They told me I was inactive, and that’s it. I was inactive, and I’m glad my team got the win. Jets got a win, man, so nothing else to think about.”
Hardman, who has played only 22 offensive snaps at wide receiver this season, had said Wednesday that he’d be open to being moved “if it works for both sides.”
Lawson’s playing time also had decreased over his three appearances, totaling only 52 defensive snaps with no sacks through the Jets’ loss in Week 4 to the Chiefs.
He also didn’t play in the season opener against the Bills while he was working his way back from a back issue in training camp.
“I haven’t really been healthy all season, but I’m functional; I’m getting healthier,” Lawson said. “I definitely wanted to go out there and compete, but on the bright side of things, it gave me another chance to get my body right.
“I’m starting to feel a little more explosive right now. So just keep working, that’s all I can do. I know I’m going to continue to get better, regardless of what else is going on.”
Lawson signed a three-year deal worth $45 million (with $30 million guaranteed) with the Jets in 2021, but he missed the entire first season of the contract with a torn Achilles.
The seven-year NFL veteran managed seven sacks and one forced fumble in 17 games last season.