The 2016 season has come to an end and it is time to take stock of what has been a disappointing year for the Jacksonville Jaguars. Whilst there were many moments throughout the year which were uncomfortable to watch- to put it nicely, there were some bright spots throughout this young roster this year. As the Jaguars department at Last Word On Sports do our best to evaluate the Jaguars, today running backs are under the microscope.
The Jaguars aren’t very deep at the running back position, as there are only three backs on the active roster. When Jacksonville got Chris Ivory last season, many speculated he would be the next great running back for the Jaguars. In my opinion, Ivory didn’t have a stellar season like everyone expected. Neither did TJ Yeldon. Both backs weren’t pound for pound when it came to running the ball. Jacksonville needs to look to free agency or the NFL Draft for the great running back that they desire.
Jacksonville Jaguars Running Backs End of Season Evaluation
Chris Ivory
Ivory is the back that everyone has been waiting for. So we thought. With only 439 total yards on 117 carries and just three touchdowns the entire season, Ivory definitely didn’t have the season he wanted. Put into thought that the Jaguars threw the ball A LOT this season, and the running back position primarily was a non-factor. For Ivory, he should look ahead into 2017 and leave this season behind. Maybe he can rack up more yards next season.
TJ Yeldon
Yeldon led the Jaguars in rushing in 2016, but only outlasted Ivory by 26 yards. Yeldon finished the year with 465 yards on 130 carries and just one touchdown the ENTIRE season. It seems as if the Jaguars hardly ever run the ball. While his season wasn’t all that great, Yeldon will look to rebound in 2017, just like the rest of the team. Hopefully next season will be a breakout one for the running backs.
Corey Grant
Grant emerged as the new favorite running back throughout the season. He finished the season with 164 yards on 32 carries with one touchdown. As the season rolled along, we saw flashes of Grant that had everyone wanting his jersey. Many believe he should be in the starting role due to his flashes of greatness that he displayed.
All in all, this depth at running back for the Jaguars is shaky in many ways. First, none of the backs really get a chance to run the ball enough to show why they wear the Jaguars logo on their jersey. As time goes along and new coaches come in, hopefully the playcalling will include more plays for all three of these backs. We all want to see them get more carries and rack up yards to take pressure off of the quarterback.
Overall Grade:
The depth at running back and inefficient carries makes me believe that this group needs more touches. Had they carried the ball more in the season, their grade would be higher than what I’ll have it at. With that in mind, my grade for the running backs is a C. More carries in 2017 could increase this grade if they prove their worth. Until then, they get a not terrible but not great grade.
