At one point the New York Jets had said they were making the run game a priority in the offseason. However, the team did very little to actually improve the running back position on the team. Mike Goodson was expected to play a large role after coming over from the Oakland Raiders, but he will start the season suspended after off-the-field issues. That leaves a lot of questions and the Jets are now considering dipping into the free agent market for help.
Rich Cimini of ESPNNewYork.com reports the Jets have brought in running back Leon Washington to work out for the team. The free agent was recently cut by the New York Patriots. Washington was popular with fans while a member of the Jets from 2006 to 2009. He suffered a broken leg causing his contract negotiations to fall apart, leading to a trade to the Seattle Seahawks. He started 13 games in four seasons.
Washington could be a huge help for the Jets. The team cut Joe McKnight at the deadline. He was originally drafted as the replacement for Washington. Set to be the team's kickoff returner, Washington could refill that role. Clyde Gates is currently penciled in to handle the job. The Jets have three other running backs on the roster, but none of them went to the Pro Bowl last year like Washington did.
The Jets announced that third-year back Bilal Powell will get the Week One start as of now. Chris Ivory will play backup but still see a significant amount of playing time. Last season, Powell rushed for 437 yards and Red Ryan said he earned the right to start. Behind Powell and Ivory, former Green Bay Packer Alex Green round out the rotation as Goodson serves his four-game suspension.
With a rookie quarterback getting the start against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, a strong ground game is essential for the team's success. Powell is a great running back, but still leaves a lot to be desired. He and Ivory will likely be in constant rotation throughout the game.
If the Jets really want Washington, they will need to make a move quickly. The veteran worked out for the New York Giants on Tuesday and could be signed soon. Any free agents will likely not find a home until after the first weekend of games. Teams will evaluate exactly what they have on the roster before adding anyone.
