The New York Jets are reportedly bolstering their rushing attack by adding running back Bernard Pierce for the upcoming season, per NFLcom’s Mike Garofolo.
Jets adding a RB. Will sign former Ravens and Jags RB Bernard Pierce, source says.
— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) July 27, 2016
This could turn out to be a smart signing, as New York desperately needed solid depth behind free-agent acquisition Matt Forte. Pierce will likely be the second or third running back in the rotation now, and he will push Bilal Powell and Khiry Robinson to improve.
That Pierce was signed this early in the summer is somewhat of a surprise, however, given the fact he’ll miss the first two games of the upcoming season due to a suspension.
A fifth-year pro who spent his first four years with the Baltimore Ravens and Jacksonville Jaguars, Pierce spent much of last season on injured reserve with a calf injury.
His best seasons came early in his career in Baltimore, and he’s not exactly sizzled since. For his career, Pierce has averaged 3.7 yards per carry and has five touchdowns on the ground.
His fantasy value at this point is nil.