Key Takeaways:
– Head coach Robert Saleh has asserted Breece Hall as the primary running back for the New York Jets in the upcoming season.
– Despite the addition of other running backs, Hall’s playing time is projected to increase from 17.5 to 20-25 touches per game.
– As Hall recovers from his injury and benefits from improved quarterback play, his performance is expected to excel.
The New York Jets’ head coach, Robert Saleh, has put to rest questions surrounding the role of second-year running back Breece Hall. Despite the Jets’ surprising selection of two running backs in the 2024 NFL draft, Saleh has confirmed that Hall will remain the team’s mainstay on offense.
Saleh’s New Game Plan with Hall
At a media interaction on May 3, Saleh delved into the team’s intended strategy for the upcoming campaign. He dismissed the notion of using a running-back-by-committee approach, highlighting that even leading players in this position still average 20-25 touches per match. Emphasizing Hall’s centrality to the team’s game plan, Saleh said, “Breece is the unquestioned bell-cow, but even then you’re still talking 20 to 25 touches.”
Hall’s Performance and Predictions for 2024
Despite recovering from a major ACL injury in 2022, Hall played an impressive role in the previous season. His statistical output suggested no indication of his previous injury. Hall registered 223 carry attempts for 994 rushing yards and five touchdowns. As a receiver, he notched 76 catches for an additional 591 yards, including four touchdowns.
In total, Hall tallied 299 touches in 2023, averaging out to approximately 17.5 touches per game. Should Saleh’s proposed increase to 20-25 touches per match hold, Hall could see touch numbers ranging from 340 to 425 by the end of the season. The increased activity alone suggests that Hall may outdo his impressive 2023 numbers this year.
Moreover, additional factors might further boost Hall’s performance. Mere 22 years old, Hall’s physical ability should only improve as he moves further away from his injury. The return of quarterback Aaron Rodgers – anticipated to be a top-half league player – should also positively impact Hall’s game. With a formidable quarterback to engage defenses, Hall can expect fewer defenders in the box, giving him more opportunities to shine.
The star running back seems eager to back up the coach’s assertion. Responding to a prediction from NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport about his improved performance in 2024, Hall enthusiastically posted on social media, “No probably to it! I am gonna be better lol.”
A Closer Look into Jets’ Draft Strategy
Saleh’s decision to add two running backs to the roster in this year’s draft confused many. However, the Jets’ strategy appears centered on the updated kickoff rules, projecting an additional “500 to 700” special teams plays this season. Accordingly, having two larger running backs was thought to be of significant benefit.
Saleh’s statements seem to clarify the Jets’ dual running back draft strategy, emphasizing the need for more players due to decreased bell-cow touches and increased special teams involvement. As such, it seems clear that while the Jets have a new look in terms of personnel for 2024, Breece Hall will remain the centerpiece of the team’s offensive plans.