In 2020 the New York Jets had arguably the worst offense in the NFL. Part of the problem was their lackluster running game. Although Frank Gore will most likely be in the Hall of Fame, he is not the bell cow he once was. This year, expectations for the New York Jets running backs are high.
Jets fans did see some flashes of a successful run game last season. But, if the Jets want to become a consistent playoff contender, they need a better run game. Being able to change the pace of an NFL game goes a long way for a team. Whether it be controlling the clock or setting up the pass, the run game needs consistent success this year.
Below are the expectations for the Jets running backs who should see the most carries.
Expectations for Carries Among the New York Jets Running Backs
Ty Johnson
Ty Johnson came out of nowhere for the Jets. After being waived by the Detroit Lions after Week 3, the Jets were the first ones to claim him. He had somewhat of a slow start, but this was most likely an adjustment period, and he needed to prove himself to his new team.
The biggest game of the season for Johnson was when the Jets hosted the Las Vegas Raiders. Johnson was able to break the 100-yard rushing mark, the first Jets running back to do so since 2018. After this game, he did not sustain that success, but he showed us some positives.
Johnson should see the majority of the snaps to start the year for the Jets. With the new offensive scheme, he should thrive with his speed and ability to reach the second level. But, if he wants to stay as the first running back on the depth chart, he will need to be more consistent this season.
Michael Carter
The Jets drafting a running back in the fourth round might have been a surprise to some people. Despite that, Michael Carter could become the starting running back in no time. He will most likely be splitting carries with some of the other running backs on the team at the start. Though if he shows he can handle a bigger workload, then the Jets will give it to him.
It has been a long time since the Jets have had a true number one running back on their roster, and Carter could be the guy to fill that role. Although this offense can operate on a running back by committee, it would be nice to have one guy who can step up and be reliable for the team.
Jets fans should not be surprised if it turns out Carter is one of the biggest steals of the draft for them.
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La’Mical Perine
Drafting a running back in the fourth round is something we saw recently for the Jets. Last year, it was La’Mical Perine, and the team thought he could become the starting running back.
Perine had an underwhelming year last season. Some of this may be because he wasn’t being utilized enough in the offense. It also could be he is hesitating too much and needs to make quicker decisions.
There were some positives from Perine. He was the best pass-blocking back for the Jets last season. This year we might be seeing him on passing downs more often to provide extra protection for Zach Wilson. Also, when the Jets needed to gain a yard, Perine was the guy who could do it. He could be getting some snaps in short-yardage situations and use his size to get the Jets a couple of yards.
The New York Jets running back expectations are high this season. If these guys can find consistent success, then the offense will be much more fun to watch. It will also help the Jets win more than two games this season.
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