New York Jets Sign Free Agent Running Back

The New York Jets have bolstered their backfield by signing running back Deon Jackson, a move necessitated by the recent retirement of Tarik Cohen. 

Jackson, 25, brings experience from his stints with the Indianapolis Colts, Cleveland Browns, and New York Giants. 

Over his NFL career, Jackson has accumulated 283 rushing yards, 223 receiving yards, and two touchdowns in 29 games. 

We have signed RB Deon Jackson.

We've released WR Hamze El-Zayat.

— New York Jets (@nyjets) August 7, 2024

He entered the league as an undrafted free agent out of Duke, where he amassed 2,267 rushing yards and 18 touchdowns. 

Jackson's dual-threat capability as both a runner and receiver makes him a valuable addition to the Jets' roster, providing depth and versatility in the backfield.

To make room for Jackson, the Jets released wide receiver Hamze El-Zayat. El-Zayat, 24, joined the team after participating in their rookie minicamp and spent the early days of training camp with the Jets. 

The former Fordham and Eastern Michigan player had shown potential but was ultimately released to accommodate the new running back acquisition. 

The Jets have signed RB Deon Jackson per @AaronWilson_NFL
pic.twitter.com/zv9eambApf

— SleeperNFL (@SleeperNFL) August 7, 2024

Jackson will now compete for a backup role behind Breece Hall, alongside other contenders such as Israel Abanikanda, Braelon Allen, Isaiah Davis, and Xazavian Valladay.

Additionally, the Jets have activated wide receiver Mike Williams from the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list. 

Williams, who signed a one-year deal with the Jets this offseason, is returning from an ACL tear sustained last season with the Los Angeles Chargers. 

Photo Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports