An Un-Bill-ievable Career
Jackson has been successful during his time in the NFL, rushing for over 5,600 yards and racking up over 2,600 receiving yards as well. On average, Jackson was running for 4.4 yards per carry, a very respectable mark for a player in an offense that has struggled to throw the ball for the vast majority of his time in Buffalo.
What makes his totals more impressive is that he was not always used as the number one running back, with the Bills drafting and acquiring multiple high profile running backs during that eight year period. And while Jackson had to battle injuries throughout his time with the Bills, being buried behind the likes of C.J. Spiller, Marshawn Lynch, and other high profile backs stunted Jackson’s growth from the beginning.
Jackson’s Next Move
Now that he is no longer with a team, the next move is for Fred Jackson to find another squad to play for. And Jackson is already being linked to one of the best teams in the National Football League, as he has taken a physical with the two time defending NFC champion Seattle Seahawks, where he has the chance to be reunited with his former backfield mate in Marshawn Lynch.
Pairing Jackson in the backfield with Lynch would be a great move for the Seahawks for a number of reasons. Already tabbed by American football tipsters as one of the favorites to win Super Bowl 50, adding Jackson to their offense would allow Lynch the opportunity to sit more plays out to keep him healthier for the all important playoffs. Meanwhile, Jackson would be able to transition from having to be a number one running back to a more complimentary role, allowing him to enjoy a lower pressure situation which can only positively impact performance.
Buffalo’s Big Mistake
The Bills made a lot of noise this offseason by bringing in former Philadelphia Eagles running back LeSean McCoy, which allowed them to feel as though they could get rid of Jackson. But that decision could end up hurting Rex Ryan’s squad if McCoy’s running style doesn’t mesh well with the offense of the AFC East team.
McCoy, despite being one of the better running backs in the NFL, likes to employ a high number of cut backs and lateral movements, which can be harmful to an offense that prides itself on physical play. Whether McCoy is effective or not remains to be seen, but losing Jackson certainly doesn’t improve the team when looking at their backups.
By: Jason M. Sanin]]>
