Jets' Deadline Acquisition Ready to Bounce Back in Patriots Rematch
Last time the Jets faced the Patriots, James Robinson rushed for only 17 yards, still in the early stages of acclimating himself with New York's offense.
The ex-Jaguars running back was acquired by the Jets less than a week before taking the field against New England, a quick turnaround that would've been challenging for any player.
Leading up to New York's rematch with their division rival this weekend, Robinson is in a better place, more comfortable in his new home and in his new offense.
"He's further along," Jets head coach Robert Saleh told reporters this week. "Thought he had a really good day against Buffalo. Feel like he probably got his life settled over the bye week. It's a whirlwind to get traded. Over the bye week, he was able to get stuff moved over here. Mentally, I'm sure he's probably more calm. Physically, he's getting better."
Robinson, 24, used the two weeks after a frustrating debut against the Patriots to get right on and off the field. First, he gathered a surplus of momentum in the backfield, rushing for 48 yards in New York's impressive win over the Bills. Not only did he play a key role on the Jets' game-winning drive—setting the tone with three carries in a row for 32 yards—but he scored his first touchdown in green and white, a seven-yard catch from Zach Wilson.
Then, during the Jets' bye week, Robinson was able to return to Jacksonville and get his life in order. The running back recounted leaving early in the morning after learning he was traded last month, not having the time to pack up and truly move on.
With that process in the rearview, Robinson is in position to make more of an impact against the Patriots on Sunday, a game where New York needs to establish some footing in the run game to foster a successful environment for Wilson.
If the Jets can win on Sunday, they'll hop into first place in the division at 7-3 on the season. Asked about the possibility of being in first place this late in the year—after spending three years with the Jaguars—Robinson smiled.
"It feels good," he told reporters on Wednesday. "I've never been in that situation. It's going to feel pretty good to try to do that."
MORE:
- Jets Sign OL Laurent Duvernay-Tardif After Workout
- How the Jets Can Beat Patriots' Cornerback Jack Jones in Sunday's Rematch
- Jets Receiver Could Return From Knee Injury Against Patriots This Week
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