The New York Jets may have a Ford in their future.
Veteran running back Jerome Ford was in for a workout with the team on Monday. It may be a routine look-see for practice squad purposes. But given the Jets’ history of misfortune, it could be a sign that the team has downplayed the seriousness of injuries to established running backs Breece Hall and Isaiah Davis.
Hall sustained a groin injury during summer workouts, and was held out of the last two preseason games. His injury has been frequently described as “minor,” although a running back’s core dictates how effective he can be. Any limitations, no matter how minor, could hamper his on-field actions. Hall is one of the main offensive stars for the Jets, and if he’s at half-speed, that puts the pressure on other areas.
Davis has been listed with an unspecified knee injury. He was sidelined throughout the preseason, and it’s worth remembering that head coach Aaron Glenn mentioned that Davis “could be out a couple weeks” on Aug. 6th when assessing the injury during training camp.
Both Hall and Davis have been declared as ready for Week 1 and the Tennessee Titans. But it’s also possible that the Jets have been downplaying what could be lingering injuries that could affect their depth.
Ford, 26, has appeared in 57 regular-season games (18 starts) for the Cleveland Browns over four seasons after being a fifth-round pick in 2022. When healthy, he has been effective. His 340 carries resulted in 1,463 yards, a healthy 4.3 yards per attempt. His resume includes seven touchdowns. As a receiver, he’s caught 107 of 138 targets for 647 yards and an additional five touchdowns.
His best year was in 2023, when he racked up 813 yards, including a 69-yard explosion as his longest run of that season.
In March, he signed a one-year deal with the Washington Commanders. But he sustained a hamstring injury during training camp and was later released with an injury settlement.
Running back is a deep position for the Jets, with Hall, Davis, Braelon Allen and Kene Nwangwu on the roster. Although Hall is going to get the majority of the carries when healthy, his backups have been effective when called on.
In March, Ford signed a one-year deal with the Washington Commanders. However, he sustained a hamstring injury during training camp and was later released with an injury settlement.
Ford could be looking at a practice squad placement with the Jets, given that the team currently doesn’t have a running back on that squad.
