Methods and systems for protecting a duct joint are provided. An assembly for protecting a joint formed between a first duct and an adjacent second duct includes a first coupling element coupled about the first duct and a second coupling element coupled about the second duct. The assembly also includes a plurality of axial straps coupled between the first coupling element and the second coupling element such that each axial strap of the plurality of straps forms a loop that encircles a portion of each of the first coupling element and the second coupling element.