Training Camp Profile: RB Elijah McGuire

Running back Elijah McGuire is ready for his rookie season with the New York Jets as he prepares for his first NFL training camp.

If it’s one thing the offense of the New York Jets might emphasize on this upcoming season, it’s their ground game. At this point in time, a starting position is up for grabs between Matt Forte and Bilal Powell. If the Jets are serious about ushering in a youth movement, Powell will more than likely get the nod but Forte will continue to make his case that he still has some gas left in the tank.

Both running backs, however, have a history of being injured. This is one of the big reasons why in the 2017 NFL Draft, the Jets knew they needed to draft at least one more running back to add to the mix.

Running back Elijah McGuire was drafted in Round 6 of this year’s draft out of Louisville-Lafayette. McGuire can easily end up being a hidden gem due to everything he brings to the table. Take a look at his complete profile heading into training camp with the Jets.

2016 SEASON REVIEW

In his senior year at Louisville-Lafayette, McGuire totaled 1,127 rushing yards on 232 attempts and seven touchdowns. As a receiving option, McGuire totaled 238 yards, 29 receptions, and a pair of touchdowns.

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2017 SEASON OUTLOOK

McGuire is heading into a good situation with the Jets considering that he’ll more than likely be used in situational roles.

If anything, expect to see new offensive coordinator John Morton use his unique skill-set as a receiving option out of the backfield. In his entire collegiate career, McGuire has totaled 1,394 receiving yards, 10 touchdowns, and averaged 8.2 yards per reception. If he can bring such results to the pro level, there is no telling how much of a catalyst he can be on offense.

TRAINING CAMP PREDICTION

Expect to see McGuire earn a final spot on the 53-man roster and be eased into the offense as the regular season progresses. If anything, McGuire would also make a strong case to be considered to compete for the starting kickoff/punt returner spot on special teams.