New York Jets: Can Michael Carter become the starting running back?

Michael Carter adds a new dimension to the New York Jets running back room but does he have the potential to take over as the starter?

In the fourth round of the 2021 NFL Draft, the New York Jets selected former North Carolina Tar Heels running back Michael Carter. Of course, they also made humorous headlines later on Day 3 of the draft when they select a Duke defensive back, Michael Carter II.

But in a shallow running back class, landing Carter early in Round 4 was an excellent pick. Teams are becoming privy to the fact that they can land a player able to contribute in the later rounds of the draft, and the Jets may have just found a future starter in the process.

Having said that, it’s worth looking at Carter as a prospect and seeing just how largely he can contribute to the Jets running back room as a rookie and moving forward.

Michael Carter’s college career at North Carolina

Michael Carter showed flashes when he first got to UNC but he really hit his stride in his junior year. Playing behind Javonte Williams, Carter actually rushed for more yards than Williams in 2019, as well as in 2020. His elusiveness with the ball in his hand was something to marvel, as he caused opposing defenders fits.

Carter’s ability to change direction and angles without losing speed is incredible. His low center of gravity and strength powers him through arm tackles, while his grit presents itself regularly as he fights for the maximum amount of yardage.

In the simplest terms, Carter has shown an ability to be an outstanding playmaker even in a timeshare. So how does this help him moving forward with the New York Jets?

New York Jets Running Back Committee

Coming from the San Francisco 49ers, head coach Robert Saleh and offensive coordinator Mike LaFleur will try and emulate their former offense with their new team. The Jets signed Tevin Coleman during the offseason, and his familiarity with the system will help the other backs get acclimated.

Now they’ve added Michael Carter to the running back stable that also features La’Mical Perine, Ty Johnson, Josh Adams, and Peter Guerriero.

To be fair to Johnson and Adams, they played well when their number was called, both averaging over 4.5 yards per carry in 2020. Perine, on the other hand, was a large disappointment, averaging under 4.0 yards per carry and grading out as the worst running back on the team, per PFF (subscription required). Adding Carter to the team doesn’t necessarily jeopardize anyone’s roster spot, but it does signify that Joe Douglas wants to upgrade the position group.

With the New York Jets being the “east coast 49ers”, you can almost completely expect the running back room to start the season off in a committee. This is where Carter is going to provide his chance to shine.

During his senior year at North Carolina, Carter had a higher PFF rushing grade than the two running backs selected in the first round and had one of the best elusive ratings in college football. And, despite his size, he’s shown a great ability to create yards after contact.

Carter’s an excellent fit for the direction the New York Jets offense is heading towards, and his soft hands in the receiving game can provide an excellent outlet for rookie Zach Wilson.Without a true incumbent at the position, Carter has every opportunity to become the lead back of the New York Jets.