Jets are wise to consider trading Matt Forte

If the New York Jets are to do their current rebuild correctly, it’s imperative they give more opportunities to their younger players this upcoming season. They’re wise to consider trading running back Matt Forte for that sole purpose.

The New York Jets are entering the 2017 season with one of the youngest rosters in the league and they may be ready to get rid of one of the few veterans they have left. Reports are out that running back Matt Forte is on the trading block and could be dealt before the regular season kicks off in just a few weeks.

Forte, 31 years old, has been one of the games more consistent backs for the last decade. While he may not be the dynamic player he was in his prime, he can certainly add value to a team that’s looking to upgrade their backfield.

In what was considered a down year, the ten-year pro still ran for 813 yards, caught 30 passes for 263 yards and found the end zone eight times. He did miss three games due to injury and has been forced to a sit out much of training camp and preseason with a nagging hamstring. Although he is on the wrong side of 30 which is usually when running backs start to tail off, Forte has been a durable back throughout his career. He should have a few more productive seasons left in the tank.

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The Jets plan on rolling with Bilal Powell as their starting running back and may want to take a look at rookie sixth round pick Elijah McGuire as their backup.

It’s clear that New York is a rebuilding team looking to evaluate young talent and with Forte not a part of their future plans, it makes sense for them to move in a different direction.

However, Forte’s guaranteed salary of $4 million could complicate finding a trade partner. It may mean that Gang Green has to eat some of his contract and may get very little in terms of value in return. An outright release is not out of the question, and although the Jets won’t save any money by simply cutting ties with the veteran running back, it may end up being the best course of action for both sides.