Josh McCown ready to step in for injured Sam Darnold

FLORHAM PARK, N.J. – Josh McCown has not taken a single snap this season, but that does not mean the 39-year-old quarterback has not been putting in work.

He's been working with the Jets' scout team and preparing for each week. It's been Sam Darnold's job, but the rookie has a strained right foot. That's expected to open the door for McCown to run the offense Sunday against the Bills.

McCown is not concerned about being rusty in his first regular-season game in 11 months.

"That's not the plan," McCown said. "Part of being in professional football is the expectation is to go out and play at a high level. That can not be allowed to be an excuse and it will not be. I'll go to the standard of this football team and win a football game. "

McCown was the Jets' starter last season before he broke his hand Dec.10 in a loss to the Broncos. He threw for a career-high 2,926 yards and 18 touchdowns in 13 games.

"Josh practices every day," Todd Bowles said. "He takes reps all the time. He's a true professional, and I think he'll be ready. "

McCown's value as a mentor and adviser to Darnold. McCown has not played since the last preseason game and appeared in only two of them, attempting nine passes. But he has not been hit since then and feels fresh.

"I mix in and get work," McCown said. "I do not know what to keep me tuned up. That's my main focus. Then the mental aspect of just going on the game plan every week with Sam and how much football he and I talk, that's the biggest part of my preparation. "

McCown does not expect his timing or chemistry with the receivers will be an issue. He was working with them in the workplace and said they would do additional work if needed.

"Whatever it takes to get ourselves up to speed, but for the most part with those guys I feel comfortable," he said. "There's no excuse, you got to go out and get it done."

Injury report

Seven Jets did not practice Wednesday, including Darnold. The others were Quincy Enunwa (ankle), Robby Anderson (ankle), Spencer Long (finger / knee), Steve McLendon (ankle), Neal Sterling (concussion) and Terrence Brooks (illness). Bowles said "he's pretty concerned" about the players who did not practice, but he did not ruled anyone out.