Nathaniel Hackett explains 'cool thing' about Jets' inexperienced RB room

For whatever the New York Jets ' running backs room lacks in NFL game experience, the collection of ball carriers makes up for with versatility.

If the Jets get their way, RB1 Breece Hall would never leave the field, but that's not a realistic expectation in today's NFL. Behind Hall, New York has four unproven options vying for reps and offensive coordinator Nathaniel Hackett has quickly gained an appreciation for each individual's diverse skill set.

"I think one of the cool things we have going for us right now is we don't have running back that are very specific in one thing. We don't have a guy that you have to put in for a pass play, a guy that you have to put in for protection, a guy that you have to put in to run outside zone, or downhill," said Hackett one day before the Jets' joint practice with the Carolina Panthers .

Hard-running rookies Braelon Allen and Isaiah Davis are at the forefront of the RB2 position battle. Both backs features above-average size and have shown ability as receivers and pass protectors.

Allen and Davis both displayed good acceleration during the preseason opener against the Washington Commanders . The former resembled a freight train after breaking into the second level on a 24-yard rush. After Allen exited for a breather, Davis moved the chains with a 24-yard reception over the middle on third down.

"When they go out, we don't skip a beat, and we can still do our entire offense. We can put them in on third down, we can put them in on a pass play, and in the end it's not a bad thing to check that thing down to those guys with space as we saw they're dynamic with the ball in their hands," said Hackett. "They're going to run by you, they're going to run you over, they're going to do a lot of different things. It's a very versatile room and that's what I love about it right now."

Practice Squad callup Xazavian Valladay, 2023 fifth-round pick Israel Abanikanda and recently-signed free agent Deon Jackson are also in the mix. When it comes to the group's preparation, Hackett directed credit toward position coach Tony Dews.

"Coach Dews has done such a great job with all those young guys, and really getting them to come along," said Hackett.

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