Full of Fullbacks?

At the fullback position, the Jets have more than a competition: they have a dilemma.

Incumbent Tony Richardson is being pushed – to the limit – by rookie John Conner. The rookie has impressed so many (coach Rex Ryan included) that one has to wonder if Richardson’s job is at risk. Although one roster spot is generally reserved for the fullback position, which would set up the mentor Richardson and the mentored Conner on a crash course with one another, this is the season to make the rare exception and keep two spots open for the fullback position. Tony Richardson’s résumé, toughness, and intangibles are too invaluable for this team to be without. The one-man convoy has blocked for the likes of Emmitt Smith, Marcus Allen, and Adrian Peterson, three backs whose names you may have heard at one point or another. On top of that, Richardson is a locker room presence and looked up to by many players, including the young Conner. Conner may not boast the same experience, but he’s certainly a keeper as well. His mantra: “If it’s moving, hit it.” Conner has a get-out-of-my-way mentality, which is fitting, to say the least, for a fullback. He will be an asset now and in the future when the 38-year-old Richardson’s time is done. 

Says Rex Ryan: “John Conner, one day is going to be a big-time fullback in this league.”

If he really thinks so, it’s the right move to keep both of these guys.

Let’s see how each shows up in tonight’s New York battle.

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All of this is bad news for fullback Jason Davis, who will likely face being cut because of the overwhelming competition. The 26-year-old Davis has shown much promise in training camp following his brief stints with Oakland and Chicago, but his play has tapered recently. This likely spells doom for Davis, but he will make a nice pickup for another team looking for a fullback.

Stay tuned.