Elijah McGuire making some serious noise
Being quite the popular player at Louisiana–Lafayette, running back Elijah McGuire is making some serious noise so far with the New York Jets.
It’s no secret that the New York Jets will be looking for players to step up and deliver when it comes to the offensive side of the football. All throughout the preseason, their offense lacked chemistry, execution, and overall just any kind of jolt to bring some life to a lackluster group.
Needless to say, the Jets didn’t score many touchdowns but one bright spot was the impact that running back Elijah McGuire had when he stepped foot on the field. The Louisiana-Lafayette star was drafted in the 6th Round of the 2017 NFL Draft by the Jets since they know what he brings to the table.
Besides having some incredible speed once he turns on the jets, his receiving abilities out of the backfield could turn into a much-needed dimension this upcoming season.Head coach Todd Bowles has so far seen the potential of McGuire as he constantly speaks highly of him and even recently spoke about his progression at a press conference.
Courtesy of the Media Relations Department of the Jets, here is what Bowles said about McGuire’s progression so far since he was drafted:
On the progression of Elijah McGuire…His maturity and intelligence have been very good. He can run. He has some moves. He plays very smart. He holds onto the football, so that part of it has been real good.
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In his collegiate career, McGuire as a running back totaled 4,301 yards, 710 rushes, and 42 touchdowns. As a receiving option, he totaled 1,394 yards, 130 receptions, and 10 touchdowns.
That kind of production warrants serious consideration to giving him some playing time in some kind of rotation at running back in games that actually count.
Matt Forte is getting up there in age and is already dealing with nagging injuries. Bilal Powell is also in the same situation as all of which bodes well for McGuire to get more opportunities to either spell relief or even come in and take care of business. Yeah, expectations are low for the Jets this upcoming season but don’t be surprised if McGuire turns out to be a pleasant surprise at some point for the Jets who by all accounts, will be in need of serious offensive playmakers.