Aug 19, 2023; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Indianapolis Colts running back Deon Jackson (35) runs the ball while Chicago Bears safety Elijah Hicks (37) defends in the first quarter at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports
Looking to add a running back since the retirement of Tarik Cohen, the Jets have signed free agent Deon Jackson. Likely just a camp body, Jackson has spent his three year career with the Colts, Browns and Giants.
To make room for Jackson the Jets parted with wide receiver Hamze El-Zayat who had impressed lately while getting some reps with the first string offense.
The undrafted rookie out of Eastern Michigan was a long shot given his size (5′ 8” 179) but made some noise this past week in hauling in multiple long balls in the Jets Green and White scrimmage.
According to Dennis Waszak of the associated press, El-Zayat was released with an IR designation and would revert to the Jets if he’s not claimed on waivers.
Jackson played his college ball at Duke where he ran for over 2,100 yards over his final three college seasons.