The Cleveland Browns could add demonstrable depth to their backfield with recently released Jets running back Michael Carter.
The New York Jets released running back Michael Carter on Tuesday, and Cleveland Browns wide receiver Elijah Moore used the opportunity to sign his former teammate.
Moore responded to a tweet from ESPN insider Adam Schefter announcing the move with a series of emojis that translated to suggesting he’d like to see Carter land with the Browns.
Carter was a fourth-round pick of the Jets in 2021 and had productive seasons in New York, notably as a rookie.
He gained 964 yards from scrimmage in his first season. Carter wasn’t able to match that performance last year, but he still contributed, recording 402 rushing yards on 114 carries and 41 catches for 288 yards.
However, Carter’s role in the Jets’ offense has been almost non-existent this season. Before his release, Carter had only eight carries for 38 yards in the crowded Jets backfield.
He caught 15 passes for 68 yards and didn’t find the end zone.
Moore faced a similar situation with the Jets last year and expressed frustration with his role in the offense.
That led to a trade to the Browns this season, where he established himself as the No. 2 receiver on offense behind Amari Cooper.
Browns could use Michael Carter’s skills
Carter could be an interesting addition to the Browns roster. Cleveland lost Pro Bowler Nick Chubb for the season in Week 2 and used a mostly running back-by-committee approach.
It took a while for the Browns running game to get going without Chubb. But Cleveland has righted the ship and is second in the league in yards per game (147.9). Jerome Ford led the way with 124 carries for 532 yards.
Kareem Hunt led the team with 228 yards and six touchdowns. Pierre Strong Jr. was an occasional fixture on the team while Hunt and Ford both struggled with injuries. Strong has carried the ball 34 times for 152 yards this season and has the best rushing average of the three (4.5).
Carter showed he could be a reliable third down player and was dangerous as a pass catcher.
Ford and Hunt are also solid receivers, but the Browns should take advantage of any opportunity to seriously improve their roster as they aim for a playoff spot. Carter would provide needed depth in case of injuries.
The Browns prepare for a big week against the Steelers
With their win over the Baltimore Ravens in Week 10, the Browns now sit at 6-3 in the crowded AFC North.
The Browns’ game this week against the Pittsburgh Steelers could potentially go for first place in the division.
“Right now, it’s the Steelers that matter most,” Ford said Monday (Nov. 13). “It’s the next game and we can’t wait to play them. Great rivalry and we look forward to playing a tough game and getting the job done.
The Steelers defeated the Browns 26-22 in their season opener on September 18 in Pittsburgh.
The Browns outscored the Steelers by a total of 408-255, but were unable to secure the victory.
The Browns are 4-point favorites to face the Steelers, according to BetMGM.
J.R. DeGroote covers the Cleveland Browns, Dallas Cowboys and Los Angeles Lakers for Heavy.com.
He has covered local and national sports as a reporter for West Hawaii Today and has decades of experience in digital media with previous stints at SB Nation and Bleacher Report.
You have won numerous state, regional and national awards for sports reporting and photography. More information on J.R. The dimension
