NY Jets: 5 takeaways from first unofficial depth chart

2. Running back order of the NY Jets

From the start, once the Jets hired Mike LaFleur as their offensive coordinator, it would not matter the order the running backs were in. Coming from San Francisco, LaFleur was bound to use a deep running back committee. After all, it is the perfect fit for an outside zone run scheme.

New York revamped their running back room too for it. Out was Frank Gore, returning is La’Mical Perine, Josh Adams, and Ty Johnson. All who flashed their potential down the stretch last season.

In comes three players – Tevin Coleman, Michael Carter, and Austin Walter. Coleman, 28, is coming off the worst year of his career, where injuries hindered his play. Given he is a running back, there was a chance he would not bounce back. Yet, during training camp, Coleman has shown he is at full strength and ready to remind the league who he is.  

As for Michael Carter, the rookie fourth-round pick has put his speed and shiftiness on full display. Getting involved in the run and pass game, he can make an impact from day one. Austin Walter also joins the show, coming from the 49ers. He too has been a noteworthy player during camp, earning more and more reps of late.

Again, the running back depth chart is not one to fret over. To open the pre-season, the veteran Tevin Coleman will run with the first-team offense, with second-year back La’Mical Perine right behind him.

The third team is Ty Johnson, who has impressed during training camp after breaking out late in 2020. Listed with the fourth team are Carter, Adams, and Walter. Expect this order to change often leading into the season.