6 running backs the NY Jets could target in 2022 free agency

4. NY Jets target: Tevin Coleman

Tevin Coleman was a surprisingly effective player for the Jets in 2021. Many believed that the former Atlanta Falcons standout was, to be blunt, washed when he signed a one-year, $1.1 million deal to join the Jets in the offseason.

Coleman was coming off the worst year of his career where he rushed the ball 28 times for just 53 yards in an injury-riddled 2020 season. It was fair to wonder what he had left in the tank.

But Coleman proved he was still a more-than-capable running back finishing with 356 yards in 11 games on a healthy 4.2 yards per carry — his highest average since 2018.

The Jets could consider bringing Coleman back on a similar deal given his experience with the coaching staff. It wouldn't be groundbreaking, but that doesn't mean it wouldn't be a smart move.

3. NY Jets target: Leonard Fournette

Leonard Fournette has managed to completely revitalize his career in Tampa Bay. The former fourth overall pick has earned the nickname "Playoff Lenny" as a result of his clutch performances in the postseason.

Since being released by Jacksonville Jaguars, Fournette has once again become "the guy" in Tampa as he finished the 2021 season with 812 yards and eight touchdowns on an efficient 4.5 yards per carry.

We've seen shades of the dominant LSU version of Fournette who would truck defenders and steamroll over would-be tacklers. His physicality would be a welcome addition to the Jets' backfield.

Fournette and Carter could form a capable 1-2 punch with the former serving more as the short-yardage/goal-line back. His skill set is exactly what the Jets should be looking for.