A look at new running back George Atkinson

There is a new running back in town as the New York Jets signed another player for the positional group due to the unfortunate foot injury to Elijah McGuire. Here’s a look at George Atkinson and everything he brings to the table.

Due to the unfortunate broken foot injury to running back Elijah McGuire, the New York Jets brought in others for the positional group to see what they could do. Ultimately, they decided to take a shot on running back George Atkinson, likely brought in just for training camp competition.

The Jets already have a solid corps at running back led by Isaiah Crowell, Bilal Powell, and Thomas Rawls. Ideally, it makes sense to bring one more running back to the mix to see if they can find another player that can contribute in the future.

Atkinson went undrafted back in 2014 but was originally signed with the Oakland Raiders. He’s only scored a single touchdown in the pros as a running back and mostly saw action throughout his few years in the NFL on special teams. As mostly a kickoff returner, Atkinson totaled 271 yards and averaged 18.1 yards per return. He’s never scored a touchdown on special teams.

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Mostly a practice squad player in his career, Atkinson has been on numerous teams but unable to find a steady role. The Jets likely want to see what he brings to the table as a kickoff and punt returner since it’s been an area they’ve been struggling in for years now.

Is Atkinson the answer to their woes on special teams? It’s unlikely but that is what training camp is all about. Putting players in a position to show what they’re capable of and seeing if a hidden gem can be found. While Atkinson will likely end up a training camp casualty, for now, he’s worth having a spot in training camp to get the reps that McGuire would have gotten before his injury.