4 young NY Jets that should see more playing time in 2021

1. Austin Walter, RB, NY Jets

Following a slew of injuries at the running back position, Austin Walter was promoted from the practice squad ahead of the team's Week 12 game against the Houston Texans.

And it quickly became apparent that Walter was going to do everything in his power to earn a role on the offense. The former Rice standout carried the ball nine times for 38 yards and scored his first career touchdown in front of family and friends in Houston.

Walter had previously touched the ball on offense just twice in his career prior to that game, but it's safe to say that he earned more snaps with his performance.

Unfortunately, an illness prevented him from putting together an even better game this past Sunday. With both Michael Carter and Tevin Coleman out, Walter could have taken over as the de facto lead back given Ty Johnson's struggles. Alas, it wasn't meant to be.

Carter and Coleman are set to return this Sunday, but the Jets would be wise to continue using Walter, perhaps even over Johnson whose issues in pass protection and with drops have become a major problem for the Jets offense.

Walter could be the next great waiver-wire pickup for the Jets, but they need to give him a chance. They'll have an opportunity to do so over the final four games of the season.