Why Justin Forsett Is a Good Fit for the Jets

Dec. 18, 2011; Chicago, IL, USA; Seattle Seahawks running back Justin Forsett (20) makes a catch against the Chicago Bears during the second half at Soldier Field. The Seahawks defeat the Bears 38-14. Mandatory Credit: Mike DiNovo-US PRESSWIRE

In our continuing look through the free agent wire to find inexpensive finds for the New York Jets, we have found another. He would be a great addition to the ground and pound, as he would fit right into Rex’s system. He’s not a star, so he won’t cost much, but we believe would flourish with the Jets. Today we look at running back Justin Forsett.

First of all he is young, which will be a nice change of pace to the guy behind Shonn Greene. The Jets do have young guys back there, but they are unproven. Forsett is only 26 years old, so he doesn’t have a lot of mileage in the league.

People might say, “Justin Forsett? He has never done anything. He can’t even get on the field as a starter, how can he help?” First of all, he wouldn’t be brought in as a starter, he would be a change of pace to Shonn Greene. With only 2 games exceeding 100 yards rushing, Greene needs an effective change of pace back behind him to be effective.

Secondly, take a look at what Forsett has done when he HAS been on the field. In 2009, on 114 carries, Justin Forsett averaged 5.4 yards per carry. Shonn Greene averaged 5 yards per carry in his rookie year, but since he has become a starter, has only averaged 4.2 yards per carry.

In 2010, Forsett averaged 4.4 yards per attempt on 118 carries. He dropped to 3.2 yards per carry in 2011, but he only carried the ball 46 times, as Marshawn Lynch became the lead ball carrier in Seattle. That just means he needs the ball a bit more to be effective, which would happen with the Jets, as again, Greene isn’t a 300-350 carry per season guy, at least not yet.

Finally, let’s look at Forsett’s receiving abilities. A good receiver out of the backfield is essential for Rex Ryan to do what he likes to do. In 3 seasons of active play for Justin Forsett (2009-2011), Forsett has caught 97 passes, a 32 catch average per season. His best was 41 catches in 2009. Shonn Greene, although improving, has only caught 46 passes over his first 3 seasons, a 15 catch per season average. Forsett would clearly help in this regard.

Justin Forsett is effective. When he gets the ball he runs well. He can catch the ball out of the backfield. He is young, he can come cheap, and would work well as a complement to Shonn Greene. The Jets should go out and get him now.