Breece Hall's 6.6 yards per rushing attempt is second in the NFL this season.
The Jets learned a few things about their team in tonight’s 27-0 victory over the Carolina Panthers, and one of those things as that Dalvin Cook isn’t needed in their running back room. Might Cook be an upgrade over some of the backs on their roster? Sure. Is he that much of an upgrade that he’s worth cutting ties with a younger back at a much higher price? Not really.
Breece Hall missed most of last season with an ACL tear but is expected back in week 1. Even if he’s not a full go, the combination of Hall, Michael Carter, Bam Knight and rookie Izzy Abanikanda is good enough.
Abanikanda flashed his big play ability tonight as he took a handoff up the middle for a 27-yard gain after a video game spin move in the middle of the field. Abanikanda has also shown he can catch the ball out of the backfield, catching all of his targets so far this pre-season with 3 of them going for 31 yards tonight.
Meanwhile, Carter reminded everyone was he was capable of as he looked or better than he did at any point last year. Carter was quick, decisive and also a factor catching the football. In all, Carter had six touches for 53 yards. Bam Knight didn’t see much action but his work last season combined with what he has done throughout training camp tell us he can be a solid depth runner.
Undrafted rookie free agent Travis Dye also had some moments tonight that showed off his quick feet and pass catching ability.
Bottom line: The Jets running back room is ready to roll. No Cook needed.