Running Back Watch: 5 Rookies that are Flying Up the Depth Chart

Breece Hall (New York Jets)

The New York Jets drafted a running back, Michael Carter, in the 2021 NFL Draft, but they did not let this stop them from adding a more complete player to the backfield. Breece Hall has roamed the gridiron for the Iowa State Cyclones over the past three years. He became the full-time starter a few games into his true freshman season.

Hall parlayed that opportunity into a team-leading 897 yards on the ground. He improved upon these numbers in each of the following two seasons. In 2020 and 2021 as the unquestioned No. 1 option on the roster, Hall recorded a total of 3044 yards on the ground and 41 rushing touchdowns. He also showcased an ability as a pass-catcher, hauling in at least 23 passes each season.

At No. 36 overall in the 2022 NFL Draft, general manager Joe Douglas added the best running back in the entire draft class. Hall entered the offseason with his eyes looking toward the RB1 spot on the depth chart, and he has made a strong case for himself since arriving in New York. Hall has been using his elite vision and agility to bob and weave defenders in team practices.

Hall struggled to get things going in his latest efforts against the Atlanta Falcons, but this is likely attributed to the offense being stagnant as a whole. Growing pains are something that Jets fans must anticipate with such a young offensive unit, but Hall will provide more positives than negatives.

Having the aforementioned Michael Carter to spell the rookie is a blessing, and it wouldn’t be a surprise to see the two split time pretty evenly over the first month of the regular season. However, talent tends to rise to the top and that is exactly what Breece Hall will do. He will definitively lead the team in carries by the time midseason rolls around and is in line to be the player that the offense runs through in New York.