2021 New York Jets Position Group Analysis In-Depth: Running Back

In the draft this year, the Jets made an exciting addition in Michael Carter. Early last season, general manager Joe Douglas claimed Ty Johnson off waivers. In free agency, Tevin Coleman was signed by the Jets. In the 2020 draft, La’Mical Perine was selected in the fourth round. Josh Adams has been with the Jets the last two seasons and just recently, Austin Walter was added through waivers. All six of these running backs for the Jets will be analyzed in-depth.

New York Jets Position Group Analysis:

Michael Carter

The Jets selected Carter early in the fourth round. It was a bit of a surprise that he was still available. As a rookie, expect Carter to take on a pretty sizable role in this offense. He is a talented prospect who is capable of making an impact as both a runner and receiver.

As a runner, Carter is quick and built low to the ground. This will help on the outside zone and stretch runs that will be a staple in the Jets running game. In the passing game, Carter has been very productive. He is tough to cover and has reliable hands. The ability Carter has as a receiver will be crucial for Zach Wilson as a rookie.

In year one, Carter will have plenty of reps in the Jets offense. Roughly 200 total touches at least in both the run and pass game should be expected. Carter will be productive in both areas for the Jets offensively.

Ty Johnson

Heading into 2021, Ty Johnson is an underrated Jet who is a top break-out candidate on the team. Johnson is a player who has a lot of Jets fans excited. He should have a bigger role in the Jets offense this season.

Johnson has great explosiveness which fits the run scheme offensive coordinator Mike LaFleur will be building. The ability to one-cut and accelerate is important in the west coast scheme and Johnson has it. Johnson has big-play threat ability with his speed. Players with similar types of skill sets to Johnson have been very productive in this system.

This upcoming year, Johnson should have more of an opportunity to show his talent. He should get a good chunk of carries every week. Johnson is a talented player with exciting potential.

Tevin Coleman

Coleman has been in this offense most of his career. Signing him with the youth the Jets have at running back was wise. He has great speed, height, and receiving ability. The veteran experience Coleman provides will help Wilson early on in his career. Coleman will have a role in this offense.

La’Mical Perine

As a fourth-round draft pick just a year ago, hopefully, Perine progresses as a player for the Jets. Last season, he did not get enough chances to prove what he is capable of. He brings a bit of a different skill set to the running back group. Perine has more size and power as a runner. He can help the running game inside the tackles. It will be interesting to see if he has the chance to contribute as a receiver or pass blocker. This year, it would be great if Perine carved out a role or at least provided depth.

Josh Adams

Adams is the biggest running back the Jets currently have. Whether or not he makes the final roster is an unknown. If he has a good summer, he would likely be a depth player with a secondary role for the team. It seems likely he is a practice squad candidate.

Austin Walter

Walter was brought over recently from the San Francisco 49ers. He has experience in the scheme. Walter is undersized with speed. He is likely just a training camp player.

Conclusion

The New York Jets will probably keep four of these running backs on the final roster. Michael Carter, Ty Johnson, Tevin Coleman, and La’Mical Perine should be the four. Each player provides something unique which is great. It would be great for Carter to show intrigue. With more of a chance, Johnson should be productive. Coleman and Perine could both be utilized situationally.

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