Breaking down C.J. Spiller’s role as per Todd Bowles

When the New York Jets acquired running back C.J. Spiller, it left many wondering where he would fit on offense. Head coach Todd Bowles recently chimed his thoughts on what led the Jets to sign Spiller and how he’ll be used.

It’s no secret that the New York Jets are a ground and pound team. The three games they won this season can all be attributed to their commitment to running the football and putting their running backs in a position to succeed. Both Matt Forte and Bilal Powell have done well when given the football to do what they do best.

When the Jets announced they have come to terms with running back C.J. Spiller, it left many wondering why they would add yet another running back. The truth be told, the regular season does indeed take its toll on many players. Injuries are piling up and if something unfortunate should happen that could sideline either Forte or Powell, it could cause disastrous results.

Besides adding depth to their running back corps, the Jets were wise in bringing Spiller into the mix. He has nice burst speed, is durable, and well, could find some late-season magic being reunited with offensive coordinator Chan Gailey. Spiller’s best season came when Gailey was his head coach back when they were both with the Buffalo Bills.

As per the Media Relations Department of the Jets, here is what head coach Todd Bowles had to say in a press conference earlier this week about Spiller:

On what attracted the Jets to sign C.J. Spiller…

Obviously, he’s played in the offense. He knows some things. He can catch the ball. He can run the ball. (He’s a) third option. He can return kicks if need be. He gives a little more variety.

On if the signing of Spiller is due to concern about the lingering injuries to Forte and Bilal Powell…

No, we just wanted a little more versatility with the third back.

On what led the team to go with Spiller after claiming Knile Davis off waivers…

I was in game-plan meetings, so they did everything upstairs. I think initially we wanted C.J., but he wasn’t available at the time, so we couldn’t get to him and initially signed Knile. I think we then made a deal with C.J., so it was a happened-at-the-last-minute type of deal.

On if Spiller would take over as kick returner…

No, I don’t see him as that. I view him as the third back right now. He can if we need him too.

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Overall, it’s easy to see the Jets considering Spiller to be a possible fit across many roles on the team, similar to how they unleash wide receiver Quincy Enunwa. It’s always good to have a player capable of filling several roles, especially in a season where the Jets could get red hot at any moment and need playmakers like Spiller ready to contribute anywhere that is needed.

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