WATCH: Why RB Josh Adams is ideal insurance policy for Jets
As it has been well documented throughout the preseason, the New York Jets lack depth at a lot of positions. On paper, their starters are good enough to be a playoff contender if they all stay healthy.
Well, we all know that's seldom the case in the NFL and you need capable backups to fill the void in the event a starter does go down.
With all the uncertainty at a lot of positions aside from quarterback and safety, the running back position is one that's not only the deepest on the team but also in the league with their new practice squad additions.
The Jets announced today that Philadelphia Eagles running back Josh Adams was signed to the Jets' practice squad. Adams was let go by Philadelphia during the final roster cuts which came as a surprise to many, including Eagles fans.
Last season Adams played in 14 games for the Eagles and rushed for three touchdowns and 511 yards on 120 carries. He even had a 4.3 yards per carry average and was Philadelphia's leading rusher last season.
The 6-foot-2 Adams went undrafted out of Notre Dame and ironically began his career on the practice squad for the Eagles and worked his way onto the roster.
With the signing of Adams, he is once again reunited with GM Joe Douglas. With Douglas having been with the Eagles last season, you knew he would have valuable insight into certain players on their roster.
GMs are more comfortable and more loyal to guys they sign or draft which is why you’ve seen quite a few guys from the Mike Maccagnan era not make it on this year's 53-man roster, including third-round pick Jachai Polite.
If Douglas was still in Philly it's unclear whether Adams would've been cut or not, however, once the news dropped that Adams was available it was a good bet he'd be the first one to contact his agent.
What Adams brings to the table is a back that has a great jump cut and is a good downhill runner. He’s not the shiftiest but at 225 pounds, he’s physical enough to go between the tackles.
One thing about Adams looking at some highlights is he excels at counters and misdirection plays. He’s still raw but has plenty of upside and is a great addition to the practice squad.
With Trenton Cannon most likely getting most of his playtime on special teams, Adams will be a great call up to fill in a hole in at depth chart in the event of an injury to one of the main guys.
If anything, he may just be an insurance piece for third-string RB Bilal Powell, who has had some recent injury history. Adams is just the latest addition to an already promising looking practice squad fielded by Douglas.
