They had Pro Bowler Tony Richardson in for a talk today, and signing him would be the latest signal that the Jets plan on throwing about 20 to 30 passes all season in 2008 (which would mean Pennington could be the best option at QB this year, but that's another post for another time). My question now is this:
Is the fullback still a viable position in the NFL? It's becomming a bit of an endangered species and the Jets have had some guys to fill the position but haven't always used them.
The Jets had Darian Barnes as their fullback for most of last year and hardly ever activated him. The year before they had B.J. Askew and he spent a few games on the bench.
Now, B. Schott does come from the San Diego system where they used Lorenzo Neal as their FB. But with the way the Jets offense shifts and motions, it would seem a dedicated fullback could diminish the element of surprise. It would be a prett big tipoff that the Jets were going to be running the ball.
Then again, everything from the hiring of Bill Callahan to the acquisitions of Faneca and Woody to the meeting with Richardson indicates that they are going to run the ball. Maybe they'll go from a deceptive attack to a "Here it is try to stop us" attack.
Darren McFadden is starting to make a lot more sense.
So, back to the question. Do the Jets -- or any team really -- need a fullback in 2008?
Comments (6)
Fullback is the most underrated position in football. Richie Anderson was great for the Jets for 10 years, and that brought stability to the running game. Look at what great fullbacks can do (Lorenzo Neal). The Jets ran almost every play with no fullback last year, and that p's me off. It gives you a huge disadvantage on running plays. I have a question....would you ever try to run the ball with only 4 down linemen (disregarding that its illegal)? NO...why would you run it without the fullback?
Not to mention the extra receiver out of the backfield to clean up things in case they get ugly. Its just SUCH an underrated position that I feel should be respected more. GET A FULLBACK!!! AND USE HIM!!!!
Tony Richardson has confirmed to SI.com that he has agreed to terms with the New York Jets. The financial terms were not disclosed, but the deal is for one year.
Richardson, a three-time Pro Bowl selection, is latest addition to a revamped Jets' offense; and he will be counted on to pave the way for Thomas Jones in the running game.
Originally an undrafted free agent signed by the Dallas Cowboys, Richardson spent the first 11 seasons of his NFL career with the Kansas City Chiefs before suiting up for the Minnesota Vikings the past two seasons.
SI.com
I like the addition of Richardson. He has been one of the best, and most consistent, FBs in football throughout his career. He's not in Lorenzo Neal's class as a lead-blocker, but he's still a very good all-around FB.
He can help to open holes for the running game, and he is also a useful target on dump-off passes. Also, I don't agree with Tom that having Richardson in the game will tip off the opposing D that the Jets are going to run the ball. In addition to being a good run blocker, Richardson is also one of the best pass-blocking RBs in the game.
Apparently, he has agreed a 1 year deal, I'm assuming for the vet minimum plus a signing bonus. That's money well spent, IMO. With the additions of Faneca, Woody and now Richardson, the Jets' running game is going to take a quantum leap this year.
Why does Rock HATE the Jets so much?
It's so damn obvious he roots against the Jets. He's probably a Patsie fan. Too bad Berger doesn't cover the team anymore.
Or, the Jets FO has him rile the fans up, gets them to come to their defense. And they have....
Perfect fit! If Gohlston's at #6, take him. If McFadden's at #6 and Gohlston's gone, trade down (Dallas's two #2's) and take either Brandon Albert for right OG or Cherilus for RT and move Woody to OG. Jones behind Richardson left or right, goes a long way. Run, then, pass. With the OL + Baker on either side, and its depth with Montgomery et al, the Jets can have a very good running game. With the second #2, assuming a Dallas trade-down, select Hardy (Indiana) as WR. Cotchery, Hardy, and Stuckey inside, gives Jets a nice short and long receiving corps. The offense would be set. Second round in draft, shoot for best available talent, period. If 'fast' LB or 'big' Safety is there, get him. Or, trade up into first round with #2 and #3 (if they can get it with D'Rob trade) for the LB.