New York Jets: Return of Jermaine Kearse helps in many ways
Coming off a procedure on his abdomen, New York Jets wide receiver Jermaine Kearse returns against the Dolphins, and his return will aid the running game.
Quincy Enunwa is a great run blocker. He’s very Hines Ward like in that regard. Jermaine Kearse returned to New York Jets practice this week, and he’s good for the running game in a very different way.
The presence of Kearse gives the Jets another quality receiver to throw to. That helps a rookie quarterback, because when it’s time to pass, he can rely on quite a few pass catchers. That said, having a lot of receivers who are reliable also aids the running game.
According to Sharp Football Stats, the Jets only ran 10 personnel (one back and zero tight ends) one time the entire season in 2017. Having Kearse allows gives them depth at the receiver position, because he’s versatile enough to play on the outside and in the slot. Having slot depth is key, though.
Using 10 personnel would spread out the defense and give the Jets a whole lot of options for what they can run. We saw Crowell beak a huge run against the Lions, and according to Pro Football Focus (subscription required), Bilal Powell was 13th in the NFL in 2017 in breakaway percentage. Imagine spreading out the defense and having one of them break a long gain, because they’re both strong enough to break tackles. With that you can incorporate delayed handoffs and play action.
The Jets coaching staff did a good job at keeping things simple for Sam Darnold in Detroit. That doesn’t mean they have to do that all season, and having Kearse in the lineup only increase potential of success for Darnold.
Next. 2018 NFL picks, score predictions for Week 2. dark
The return of Kearse helps both rookies on offense (Darnold and rookie offensive coordinator Jeremy Bates). He give the Jets so many more options and more for the opposing defenses to think about. The presence of Kearse will be huge for the Jets moving forward. Kearse is the piece that can put this offense over the top.
For more grades, advanced statistics and more at Pro Football Focus, subscribe to PFF’s EDGE or ELITE subscriptions at ProFootballFocus.com.