New York Jets

The New York Jets have created a new monster rushing attack, but it’s third-string back Khiry Robinson who may unexpectedly impress.

By Jeremy Fialkow


Forte, Powell, Robinson, Oh my!

The New York Jets have replaced last year’s solid staple of running backs with a revamped, and potentially improved, three-headed monster in the backfield.

Chris Ivory (who left for the sunny skies of Jacksonville), Stevan Ridley, and Zac Stacy are all goners, bidding farewell to the Meadowlands this offseason.

Free-agency was off to blistering start when Jets General Manager Mike Maccagnan made a powerful move in replacing Ivory with the likes of Pro-Bowler Matt Forte.

Later, Maccagnan put pen to paper with Bilal Powell, resigning the former 2011 fourth-round draft pick, and 2015 Gang Green X-factor.

However, there was one more roster change that seemed to sneak by Jets fans everywhere. They signed 26-year old Khiry Robinson to a one year, $1.175 million deal, which could prove to provide a huge impact for the offense next season.

In three seasons with New Orleans, Robinson’s numbers were ordinary at best. He finished with 766 yards rushing on 186 attempts, and scored 8 touchdowns.

Sure, Robinson hasn’t been incredibly productive…yet.

However, he is made much in the same mold as former Saint and ex-Jet Ivory. Tough, aggressive, and unexpectedly swift. He averages 2.6 yards after contact.

His toughness, specifically, is what drove the Jets GM to acquire his services. The not-so-outspoken Head Coach, Todd Bowles, gushed over the tools his new RB toy brings to the table:


 

“Obviously, the way he runs the ball, how hard he runs the ball- We thought that brought us an element we didn’t have with the other guys”


Making a professional football team as an undrafted free-agent out of West Texas State is no easy task. Still, Khiry Robinson unleashed the grit and determination that lies within him, and signed with the Saints.

His former mentor, Saints Head Coach Sean Payton, sent out a ringing endorsement for Robinson, and a promising warning to Gang Green Nation, on Thursday:


“He will Surprise you”


So, Robinson, who’s coming off an injury shortened season after breaking his leg, now joins a crowded, but talented backfield. Still, don’t be surprised if he takes little time to stand out amongst the chaos.

One can only hope he will.

1anoflyzone

Jeremy Fialkow was born and raised in Miami, FLA, but currently studies at the University of Maryland. When he's not studying hard, he can be found supporting his sometimes hopeless NY teams: Knicks, Mets, Jets, and Isles. Your sympathy is appreciated.