2022 NFL draft: 6 takeaways from the Jets drafting Breece Hall
The Jets traded up two picks to get Zach Wilson another weapon early in the second round of the 2022 NFL draft, selecting Iowa State running back Breece Hall on Friday.
Hall was the consensus top running back in this year’s draft after rushing for 1,472 yards and 20 touchdowns to go along with 36 receptions for 302 yards and three scores during his final season at Iowa State. The 6-foot-1, 220-pound Hall instantly bolsters New York’s running back depth, which is now an undisputed strength.
Let’s take a closer look at Gang Green’s selection of Hall with six takeaways.
Solid, but unexpected pick
Syndication: The Des Moines Register
Hall winding up at One Jets Drive seemed a bit unrealistic during the pre-draft process given the way Michael Carter performed as a rookie. Joe Douglas has been focused on surrounding Zach Wilson with the best possible supporting cast for a while now, though, and Hall certainly helps in that regard.
Production likely won't be a problem
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The Jets likely won’t have to worry about Hall’s production fluctuating on a weekly basis. He was one of the most consistent running backs in college football throughout his time at Iowa State, rushing for over 1,400 yards in his final two seasons with the program.
Heading to the next level on a high note
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Hall is peaking at the right time. He scored 41 touchdowns in his final 24 games at Iowa State and wrapped up his career with the Cyclones by rushing for 242 yards and three touchdowns to go along with a receiving touchdown in a blowout win over TCU.
What it means for Michael Carter
Syndication: The Record
Carter did enough as a rookie to stamp himself as the Jets’ running back of the future. New York will now employ a two-headed monster out of the backfield, though, which alters Carter’s role. Hall is more of a feature back than Carter, who is smaller and not exactly a workhorse. Both will receive their fair share of touches, however, with Carter maintaining a prominent role on the ground and in the passing game. The Jets didn’t pick Hall because they aren’t pleased with Carter. The move just changes his usage moving forward.
Ty Johnson is in trouble
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Johnson found himself in the doghouse at times last season and was a healthy scratch for multiple games at one point. He wasn’t as productive as New York was hoping, which likely played a big part in Douglas going out and getting Hall. Johnson’s spot on the 53-man roster is now in grave danger. La’Mical Perine and Austin Walter can’t be feeling too good right now, either.
Defense next?
Syndication: Journal-Courier
The Jets are slated to pick next at No. 101 barring a third Douglas trade. There is a good chance that New York turns its attention back to defense after selecting Hall, as needs at linebacker and safety still need to be addressed. Keep an eye on Illinois’ Kerby Joseph at safety and Wyoming’s Chad Muma at linebacker as potential targets.
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