Jets 2018 Training Camp Profile: RB Elijah McGuire

Running back Elijah McGuire showed signs of brilliance last season but faded away. He now has a golden opportunity to step up and deliver by having a strong training camp.

In his rookie year with the New York Jets, when his number was called, running back Elijah McGuire made the most out of the opportunity. He showed some nice hybrid skills by being able to showcase his speed on the ground and the ability to be a decent receiving option out of the backfield.

Last season, the Jets mostly used a dual-headed attack led by Matt Forte and Bilal Powell. Now that Forte has retired from the NFL, the starting spot at running back is up for grabs. This time around, the Jets brought in some serious competition to ensure they have a strong corps at running back.

McGuire will now compete against Powell, Isaiah Crowell, and even Thomas Rawls to round out the depth chart. It’s likely the Jets will keep at least three running backs heading into the upcoming season so it’s imperative McGuire proves his worth on a consistent basis all summer long.

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2017 SEASON REVIEW

Last year for the Jets, McGuire totaled 315 rushing yards, 88 rushes, and one touchdown. As a receiving option, he totaled 177 yards, 17 receptions, and a touchdown.

2018 SEASON OUTLOOK

McGuire will likely earn either backup duties or at the very least, be third on the depth chart at running back. New offensive coordinator Jeremy Bates has been vocal in that his version of the West Coast offense will feature a strong ground game. This bodes well for McGuire to at least be a part of that and also get more reps than he did last season.

TRAINING CAMP PREDICTION

Expect to see McGuire do well in training camp and make the final roster of the Jets. He’s young and has a plethora of potential to be a future starting running back in the NFL. Patience is key to his development and of course, when the opportunity comes where he’s the clear-cut option to be the lead back hopefully down the road.