It was a shock when the Jets announced they released running back Michael Carter on Tuesday.
The once-promising runner had seen his carries drop in recent years with the return of Breece Hall and the addition of Dalvin Cook this season. However, the move has opened up an opportunity for 2023 draft pick Israel Abanikanda to be activated.
Abanikanda, the fifth-round pick out of Pitt, spoke to the media after Wednesday’s walkthrough and voiced nothing but respect for Carter.
“Since day one, since I walked in here, MC showed me nothing but love and he grew to be my brother, for real,” Abanikanda said. “I'm definitely gonna miss him, for sure. I texted him after yesterday how much of an influence he was on me and even the whole team. Over in the running back room, the whole team, he was a big joy in the team. I learned a lot from him, he was just a great guy.”
Zach Wilson, the quarterback at the center of the team's offensive criticism, was asked Wednesday if Carter’s release was a “message” to the offense after their ineffectiveness over the last few weeks, the third-year quarterback quickly downplayed it.
“Mike is one of my favorite players I've ever been with,” Wilson told reporters. “Just the presence he brings, truly just an unbelievable human. Obviously we came at the same time together, so I love him like a brother and I wish him the best, but I wouldn't say by any means, send a message for anything.”
Carter will get another chance to play as he was claimed by the Arizona Cardinals on Wednesday afternoon, but for the Jets, this move and Abanikanda’s promotion will hopefully spark an offense that hasn’t scored a touchdown in two straight games.
Abanikanda said he’s been staying ready the last few weeks as he waited for the call to join the team. Jets head coach Robert Saleh told the young running back “you’re up next” and to get “ready to roll.”
Saleh and the Jets hinted at offensive changes following their 16-12 loss to the Las Vegas Raiders, the team’s second loss in a row. At 4-5, the team will need to pick up wins if they hope to sneak into the postseason in a stacked AFC. They’ll have their opportunities as they go up against their division rivals the Bills and Dolphins in back-to-back weeks.