Over the last two NFL drafts, the New York Jets have invested two selections in the first four rounds on running backs. In 2021, it was a pleasant surprise that Michael Carter was still available for the Jets early in the fourth round. General manager Joe Douglas capitalized.
In this last draft, the Jets made a thrilling trade-up early in the second round to secure Breece Hall. Here, we will assess their skillsets, roles they should each have in 2022 as well as their potential as a duo over the long term.
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Traits they both offer
What is a luxury for offensive coordinator Mike LaFleur is that both Hall and Carter can be relied upon in the passing game. As receivers, they each possess capable hands to make tough catches. Pre-snap, they offer versatility across the formation. One common attribute of their running style is their contact balance. With Carter, it is to be expected considering his natural leverage at his smaller height. Hall has a bigger frame and uses power. Lastly, they both have the patience, vision, and one-cut ability needed in LaFleur’s inside and outside-zone running scheme.
Hall’s skillset
Hall presents a ton of rare traits for the Jets offense. He has the size at 5-foot-11 and 217 pounds. It allows him to run inside with power. From there, he ran a 4.39 40-yard dash, proving some of his pure speed and big-play threat ability. This combination along with his patience, vision, one-cut ability, and receiving skills gives Hall a chance to be special.
Carter’s skillset
Carter complements Hall perfectly. He is smaller and uses his lower build to the ground to his advantage. Carter runs with great quickness and is shifty in space making defenders miss. His 4.50 speed is solid as well. Carter showed as a rookie he can make big plays in both the run and pass game.
Expectations for 2022 and beyond
Anticipate a good plan from LaFleur on how to get the most out of both Hall and Carter. This season, both should have significant reps come their way. They will likely each get at least 15 total touches a week between the run and pass game. It will be interesting to see Hall’s role throughout the season considering he is a rookie. Last year, Carter did prove himself very early in the season. Expect the same from Hall.
Over time, the goal should be for Hall and Carter to be the best running back duo in the NFL for the Jets. They are both young with Hall being 21 and Carter 23. As stated, they offer a change of pace with their size and many complementary skills. Pair that with the seamless fit they are in LaFleur’s scheme and the two should be big difference makers for a long time.