The New York Jets don’t want to burn out veteran running back Matt Forte, who is reportedly going to split carries this year with Bilal Powell.
Speaking with ESPN’s Mike Clay, Jets reporter Darryl Slater dropped this knowledge:
Just now on @NextLevelFF, @DarrylSlater said to expect a near "even carry split" between Forte and Powell this year (slight edge to Forte)
— Mike Clay (@MikeClayNFL) August 2, 2016
For the Jets, this is just smart planning and a good use of their assets. The franchise doled out similar contracts to both running backs this offseason, with Powell hauling in a surprising amount of guaranteed cash ($6 million) on a three-year deal.
For fantasy football owners, this news represents a death knell for both players’ fantasy value. Running back by committee is exactly what you don’t want to hear when considering a top back in the draft.
But back to reality, splitting carries evenly between Forte and Powell should work out well for Gang Green.
Both players can keep the chains moving on the ground. In particular, Forte should really help on passing downs when he’s in the game, as he is one of the NFL’s premier pass-catching backs.
A potent rushing attack should help Ryan Fitzpatrick and the passing attack in a big way. Opposing defenses won’t be able to key in on one aspect of the offense for fear of getting torched by the other.
