While the New York Jets attempt to sort through their quarterback drama, they have other issues brewing on the roster with free agency around the corner. For much of the season, a lot of the Jets' success was credited to Chris Ivory, but the running back appeared to get on the bad side of the coaching staff causing him to be benched in the final game. With an expiring contract to him, Bilal Powell and Stevan Ridley, who do the Jets turn to for help in the run game?
Head coach Todd Bowles was coy about the future of Ivory in New York. The running back put up career highs in almost every category this season, but that does not make him a lock to come back. According to ESPN's Rich Cimini, Ivory's contract demands will go a long way in determining whether or not he can play for the Jets in 2016 as Bowles made it clear that wanting Ivory back and getting him back are two different things.
"I like Chris. Whether you want him back and how it works out in free agency, are two different things," said Bowles, via SI.com. "Obviously money talks and situations differ, so to sit up here and say I want everybody back, yes. To sit up here and say is everybody coming back, no everybody probably isn't going to come back, but Ivory had a great year. He's a great running back. He's a good guy. He works hard and I respect everything he does."
There are several ways the Jets can get running back help and the first is the NFL Draft. With the No.20 pick, the Jets could make a move and get a rusher in the first round. It would not be a bad idea considering some of the talent that is expected to be available. Derrick Henry will be the most popular name. The junior has not officially declared anything, but the expectation is that the Heisman trophy winner will head to the NFL Draft. He could be the workhorse, stabilizer that Ryan Fitzpatrick needs next season.
Ezekiel Elliott will be the next popular name. the Ohio State underclassman has already declared for the draft and with 10 games of 100 yards rushing or more under his belt, he is NFL ready. Elliott might not be a workhorse just yet, but he is someone poised to have a high ceiling in the NFL.
Alfred Morris, Lamar Miller and LeGarrette Blount highlight the free agent market. They can all command contracts similar to what Ivory will be looking for. If the Jets do not draft someone, re-signing Ivory and Powell could be the favored move going forward.
