Jets Bringing Back Backup RB Ty Johnson
Running back Ty Johnson is returning to the New York Jets on a one-year free-agent contract.
ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported the deal on Thursday afternoon shortly after Gang Green introduced newly-signed receiver Mecole Hardman to the media.
Johnson, who initially entered the NFL in 2019 as a Detroit Lions’ sixth-round draft pick, provides needed insurance for the Jets’ backfield as second-year ball carrier Breece Hall recovers from a torn ACL injury.
The 5-foot-10 Johnson has appeared in 44 games for the Jets since they claimed the Maryland product off waivers from the Lions in October 2020.
In 2022, Johnson played all 17 games for Gang Green and made one start. The backup running back averaged 5.3 yards per carry in limited opportunities.
Johnson, a key special teams contributor, posed a legitimate threat as a pass-catcher in 2021. Over a 16-game sample that season, he made 34 receptions for 372 yards and two touchdowns. Twenty of his grabs resulted in first downs for the Jets.
During his 62-game NFL career, Johnson has rushed 208 times for 925 yards. The fifth-year pro has 668 receiving yards on 86 catches. He has seven total touchdowns (4 rush, 3 rec).
Gang Green also has former fourth-round pick Michael Carter (2021) and undrafted Zonovan Knight (2022) in its current running backs’ room.
Carter has rushed for 1,041 yards and seven touchdowns in 30 games as a Jet. Knight showed good burst as a rookie, totaling 400 yards from scrimmage in seven appearances last year.
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