New Offensive Expectations Should Give Izzy Abanikanda Shot to Catch on Quickly at Pro Level

Take the time to watch Jets running back Izzy Abanikanda and his eye-popping runs during his time at Pitt and you can’t help but get excited about what the explosive runner can do for this Jets offense.

After logging over 1,400 yards and 20 touchdowns on the ground in his final collegiate season, expect Abanikanda to show off another aspect of his game now that he’s landed at 1 Jets Drive.  That facet of his game being his ability to make plays as a receiver out of the backfield.

As mentioned with @DTereman on our draft wrap up show. Pitt didn't ask Abanikanda to catch the ball all that often, but in limited opportunities he flashed the ability to make plays.

With Rodgers/Hackett, you have to figure we'll see more of this. pic.twitter.com/CbokNSnpa6

— Glenn Naughton (@JNRadio_Glenn) May 1, 2023

Abanikanda wasn’t asked to catch the ball very often for the Panthers, hauling in just 38 passes in three seasons.  But with Aaron Rodgers under center and Nathaniel Hackett calling the plays, Abanikanda should expect a significant uptick in receptions.  While paired as the Packers QB/OC combo from 2019-2021, Packers running backs hauled in 281 passes.  Jets fans should expect more of the same with Breece Hall, Abanikanda, Michael Carter, Bam Knight and potentially Travis Dye on board.

Israel Abanikanda is more than just a guy who hits the hole and goes. Can run inside, outside and make plays after the catch. Not an easy guy for opposing defenses to bring down. pic.twitter.com/y6EgS60gDF

— Glenn Naughton (@JetsPicks) January 21, 2023

With so few catches under his belt at Pitt, some may wonder if it’s a skill the versatile back his in his tool box.  In that regard, former Jets defensive lineman Leger Douzable, while appearing on With the First Pick podcast said he spoke to a scout who attended Abanikanda’s pro day and said  the back had no issues catching the ball out of the backfield.  Given what Rodgers and Hackett like to do on offense, it’s fair to say the Jets agreed.

Glenn Naughton

Glenn was Born in the Bronx, New York and has followed the Jets religiously despite being stationed in several different countries and time zones around the world. He now resides in England and has been a JetNation member since 2005. Glenn will bleed green with the rest of us through the highs and lows.

See Full Bio