NY Jets: 5 players to target on Day 3 of the 2021 NFL Draft

2. The NY Jets could target RB Kenneth Gainwell and Michael Carter

These two players will be combined into one entry as they serve the exact same role. The Jets haven’t addressed the running back position yet (no surprise there), but they definitely could look to do so on Day 3.

And two of the best options the team had going into the draft remain on the board as we head into the fourth round — Memphis’ Kenneth Gainwell and North Carolina’s Michael Carter.

Both Gainwell and Carter would occupy the exact same space in the Jets’ backfield. A dynamic, explosive outside runner who doubles as an effective pass-catcher and could be a perfect fit in an outside-zone scheme.

Gainwell was a one-year wonder at Memphis shredding defenses in 2019 as a redshirt freshman. The Missouri native topped 2,000 total scrimmage yards en route to being named a Freshman All-American and first-team All-AAC.

He decided to opt out of the 2020 season, but his 2019 season speaks for itself. If you’re looking for an electric committee back who can be used in a variety of ways on offense, Gainwell is your guy.

Carter projects as a very similar prospect, although he comes with a bit more mileage/experience. The soon-to-be 22-year-old formed one of the most dynamic running back duos in the country alongside Javonte Williams at North Carolina.

At only 5-foot-7, he’s never going to be a three-down, between-the-tackles running back (much like Gainwell). But he’s a patient runner who possesses the vision and quickness to excel in an outside-zone scheme.

Both Gainwell and Carter would be superb targets on Day 3, possibly as early as the 107th overall pick.

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