In what was a long-rumored deal, the New York Jets finally acquired running back Chris Ivory from the New Orleans Saints on Friday evening for a fifth-round draft pick.
Jets sign Chris Ivory to 3-year contract
New York needs playmakers and they believe Ivory could be a piece of the puzzle.
Chris Graythen
Now, New York has signed Ivory to a three-year deal, locking up the explosive back for the foreseeable future, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter. The money involved has not been made public.
More: Extended Jets coverage
The Jets are in desperate need of players who can break off big yardage, something Ivory has shown the ability to do in flashes. In his three-year career with New Orleans, Ivory’s best was his rookie campaign of 2010 when he rushed for 716 yards and scored five touchdowns.
In the two years since, Ivory has played a backup role and accrued 591 yards and three scores.
One knock on Ivory coming into offensive coordinator Marty Morningweg’s system is his lack of pass-catching ability. Over three seasons, Ivory has only three catches.
Ivory will join Bilal Powell and Joe McKnight in the Jets backfield and will have an obvious leg up to be the Week One starter. Ivory has terrific speed, giving New York the opportunity to hit a home run when the ball is in his hands. Outside of Ivory, the only other player who that can be said about on Gang Green is receiver Santonio Holmes.
Now with Geno Smith likely starting soon, the running game becomes even more important. Ivory will be looked upon to shoulder the load and give Smith some easier downs to throw out of, as well as providing a decent play-action pass that defenses must respect.
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