The New York Jets are getting some backfield help.
Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reported former San Francisco 49ers running back Tevin Coleman is reuniting with former Niners defensive coordinator and current Jets head coach Robert Saleh in the Big Apple. Rapoport noted the Jets are likely to run a similar offensive system to that of San Francisco.
Adam Schefter of ESPN reported the deal is for one year and is worth up to $2 million.
The #Jets are finalizing a deal with veteran RB Tevin Coleman, source said, as the former #49ers RB lands back with Robert Saleh and will have a similar system on offense.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 24, 2021
Jets signed former 49ers' RB Tevin Coleman to a one-year deal worth up to $2 million deal, per source.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 24, 2021
Coleman is coming off a nightmarish 2020 in which he rushed 28 times for just 53 yards over the course of eight appearances. He will try to get back on track in New York.
The 27-year-old first broke out as a multidimensional back with the Atlanta Falcons in 2016, amassing nearly 1,000 yards from scrimmage and 11 total touchdowns despite being the backup to Devonta Freeman. Coleman gradually saw more and more playing time in Atlanta, rushing for 800 yards and a career-high 4.8 yards per carry in 2018.
However, Coleman has had a tough time really establishing himself as the feature back. He began the 2019 campaign as San Francisco's starter but was essentially unseated by Raheem Mostert down the stretch. Injuries have also played a role in the last two seasons.
Signing Coleman is a low-risk move given his familiarity with the system and explosive potential both as a rusher and pass-catcher. New York also just needs options after ranking in the bottom half of the league in rushing in each of the past two seasons.
Coleman will have the chance to prove he can still be an effective playmaker in the backfield and reenter the market next season.
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