NY Jets: Analyzing the running backs after the first wave of free agency

The veteran addition: Tevin Coleman, RB, NY Jets

When the Jets hired San Francisco 49ers defensive coordinator Robert Saleh as their head coach, many started to determine which 49ers free agents could come to New York with Saleh. And after over a week into free agency, Tevin Coleman became the first to make the move.

As things stand right now, Coleman is the veteran of the Jets running back room.

Drafted 73rd overall by the Atlanta Falcons in the 2015 NFL Draft, Coleman will be entering his seventh season in the league. He also will be looking to bounce back following the worst season of his career.

Prior to the 2020 season, Coleman never missed more than four games in a season. Then, due to a nagging knee injury, Coleman missed eight games, leading him to only make one start. On the year, Coleman rushed for a career-low 53 yards on 28 carries.

Obviously, those numbers are not why the Jets signed him. Yet, they are the reason why the Jets signed him to a one-year, incentive ladened deal. Simply take a look at what Coleman brings to the table when healthy.

The Indiana prospect had never averaged fewer than four yards per carry prior to 2020. He also provides a reliable weapon in the passing game, with 1,224 yards receiving on his career. Additionally, from 2016-2019, Coleman had at least 700 yards from scrimmage every season.

Yes, Coleman was banged up this past season. But there is no reason that if he is healthy, he cannot provide that reliable veteran that the Jets need to lead their committee backfield.

Next: The wild card of the unit