Fantasy Football 2016 Preview: New York Jets running backs

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Nov 22, 2015; Houston, TX, USA; New York Jets quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick (14) hands off the ball to running back Bilal Powell (29) during the game against the Houston Texans at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports /

Jets Running Backs-Overall Outlook

Last year, the Jets running backs were a huge part of their attack as Coach Todd Bowles and offensive coordinator Chan Gailey found a creative way to build an offense around Texans’ castoff Ryan Fitzpatrick. After a long offseason full of drama, the Jets brought their QB back hoping for more FitzMagic this season.

The Jets ranked 12th in the NFL in run play percentage and tenth in the league in rushing yards. They didn’t have a lot of rushing touchdowns (just 11), but they stayed committed to pounding the ball and using multiple backs in both the rushing and receiving elements of the offense.

This offseason, the Jets had some major turnover in their backfield including losing lead-rusher Chris Ivory. Ivory took his talents to Jacksonville after rushing for 1,070 yards yards and seven scores last year. To help fill the gap, the Jets brought in veteran Matt Forte while also adding Khiry Robinson who looked solid in his timeshare in New Orleans.

Overall, I expect solid numbers from the Jets running backs this year, but it’s hard to see exactly how the new timeshare will shake out. Forte is entering his 31-year-old season, so there could be some deterioration in his game. That could create opportunity for Robinson and Bilal Powell to step up, but we’ll have to see how the timeshare shakes out.

Next: How much does he have left in the tank?

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