New York Jets 2018 Training Camp Profile: Isaiah Crowell
The New York Jets have a new running back in veteran Isaiah Crowell. Here we take a look at his 2018 training camp profile.
The New York Jets open their training camp on July 26 and many questions need to be answered. All eyes will be on rookie quarterback Sam Darnold but there are other position battles as well.
An important one is at running back where former Cleveland Browns halfback Isaiah Crowell is expected to be the lead back in Gang Green’s backfield for 2018. The Alabama State product was inked as a free agent to a three-year, $12 million pact In March.
Let’s take a look at his training camp profile:
2017 Season Recap
The 5-11, 225-pounder galloped for 853 yards (4.1 yards per carry) and a pair of touchdowns for the hapless Browns last year. He chipped in with 28 receptions for 182 yards. Crowell took a small step back from his career-best 2016 campaign when he rushed for 952 yards (4.8 YPC) and tallied seven touchdowns. When you add in his 40 catches for 319 yards you can see why 2017 was somewhat disappointing for him. Not to mention his team went 0-16. Let’s not forget that.
Crowell started all 16 games last year and has never missed a contest in his four-year career. He was actually one of the few bright spots in a dismal, forgettable season for Cleveland.
Training Camp Forecast
Expect the Columbus, GA native to get his fair share of reps in training camp as he acclimates to his new team. While Crowell is a decent receiver out of the backfield, look for Bilal Powell to continue his role as one of the better third down backs in the league.
Crowell will prepare to be the lead back on first and second downs with an occasional third down scenario sprinkled in. Don’t look for him to play very much in preseason contests. The Jets don’t want the injury bug to bite him.
2018 Season Outlook
In addition to being the main back on first and second downs, Crowell will be the first option for goal line carries. The Jets have used a running back-by-committee for several seasons now. That philosophy should remain intact under new offensive coordinator Jeremy Bates.
Elijah McGuire will also receive some carries from time to time but make no mistake, Crowell is New York’s main man. He is in his prime at 25 years of age and he’s extremely durable. He averaged 53.3 yards rushing per game for the Browns last year — look for that average to improve behind New York’s better offensive line.
Next: NFL 2018: Ranking all 32 WR corps
Is Crowell going to remind anyone of Todd Gurley or Le’Veon Bell? Of course not. However, he’ll provide Gang Green with a sturdy, dependable halfback with some upside moving forward. He will prove to be an important free agent acquisition by general manager Mike Maccagnan.