Jets 2019 NFL draft preview: Running Back

In this series, we’ll preview every position group as it relates to the 2019 NFL draft and the New York Jets. First up, let’s take a look at the Jets’ running back situation, and how it could be impacted by this year’s draft.

The Jets landed one of the biggest tickets in NFL Free Agency this offseason, inking Le’Veon Bell to a long-term deal and giving Sam Darnold one of the league’s most dynamic and versatile weapons to help balance the offense.

Bell’s presence will obviously be a focal point of New York’s offensive attack moving forward, but the Jets would be wise not to burden him with the kind of work load that would break him down and make him less effective over a long season. That means having a deep stable of runners behind him to shoulder some of the touches throughout the year.

Elijah McGuire has a versatile skill set of his own that should make him a worthy reliever for Bell, allowing him to enter the game regardless of down or distance. The recent addition of veteran Ty Montgomery gives the Jets yet another back with many tricks up his sleeve, as the former wide receiver can line up all over the field and make big plays when he gets the ball. Exclusive rights free agent De’Angelo Henderson returns, and he’ll likely be fighting with Trenton Cannon for a roster spot following the Montgomery signing.

The Jets don’t have too many picks to play with in this draft, so it would be a bit of a surprise to see them spend one on yet another running back, considering the fresh faces they’ve already added this offseason. However, if they were to target some as free agents after the draft, here are a handful of promising runners who could end up falling through the cracks and give the Jets added competition and potential:

Nick Brossette, LSU

Jalin Moore, Appalachian State

Qadree Ollison, Pitt

Jacques Patrick, Florida State

Wes Hills, Slippery Rock