New York Jets: Ty Montgomery a solid, under the radar signing
The New York Jets made a smart signing recently by inking Ty Montgomery to a one-year pact. His versatility should pay big dividends in 2019.
There was no gushy fanfare. Le’Veon Bell received all of that. However, the recent signing of Ty Montgomery by New York Jets general manager Mike Maccagnan was a smart under-the-radar transaction.
Gang Green needed to replace Bilal Powell and adding Montgomery to the roster made a great deal of sense for a myriad of reasons. Powell is going to turn 30 this season and is coming off neck surgery. The Jets needed a younger version of him, someone not as injury prone and with some air still left in the tires. Montgomery’s pact is only for one year, so his incentive level should be through the roof.
The 6-2, 216-pounder is one of the most versatile players in the NFL. In his four-year career with the Packers and Ravens, Montgomery has 932 rushing yards (4.9 yards per carry) and 892 receiving yards (8.3 yards per reception) with 10 touchdowns.
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He’ll be a perfect backup to the workhorse Bell because he can spell him for a tough third down carry or he can grab a key reception out of the backfield or slot. Montgomery is also just 26 years old, so he’s still in his prime.
The Jackson, MS native can chip in as a kickoff returner as well. With the departure of Pro Bowler Andre Roberts to the Bills (a huge loss), Trenton Cannon and Montgomery may vie for the lead role. Montgomery has averaged 22.7 yards per return on 35 attempts during his brief career.
This is an opportunity for a fresh start for Montgomery after a rough 2018 campaign in which split his time almost evenly between Green Bay and Baltimore. He spoke about what qualities he brings to Gang Green via NewYorkJets.com:
"“I think I can really bring something to the table to help this offense in being a guy that can go out wherever, make plays from wherever on the field, and I’m really excited about that,” said Montgomery, who also added, “I can line up anywhere. I can create mismatches, I can go make plays at any given moment at any point on the field.”"
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The flexibility and versatility that Montgomery gives the Jets will be important because he can spell Bell for a carry or two (along with Elijah McGuire) and he’ll be a potent weapon out of the backfield as a receiver to boot. It’s just a one-year commitment so Maccagnan has not mortgaged anything of significance. All in all, it’s a win-win scenario for all concerned.