NY Jets: The 3 best pass-catching running backs in franchise history

Today we look back on some of the greatest pass-catching running backs in NY Jets history.

When we think about some of the greatest running backs of all time such as Walter Payton, Jim Brown, and Barry Sanders, the first aspect of their game that we usually refer to is their total rushing yardage.

The Jets also boast of a Hall of Fame running back who amassed over 14,000 rushing yards in Curtis Martin. While a speedy and powerful runner can add to a well-balanced offense, another quality often tends to go unnoticed.

A running back who can not only carry the football but can also catch passes out of the backfield adds another dimension to a well-diversified offensive attack.

Some of the best all-purpose running backs in the history of the game have been selected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

Marshall Faulk (767 receptions for 6,875 yards), LaDainian Tomlinson (663 receptions for 4,772 yards), and Marcus Allen (587 receptions for 5,411 yards) are three of the all-time pass-catching greats. Today's NFL is all about passing and the more guys that can catch the ball, the better.

Christian McCaffrey has set the standard of excellence over the last several seasons when it comes to the modern-day all-purpose running back. From 2017 to 2019, McCaffrey compiled a total of 303 receptions for 2,523 yards. Unfortunately, injuries ended his 2020 season prematurely.

Given the importance of an athletic and versatile running back, let's go back in time and take a look at three of the best pass-catching running backs in NY Jets history.