2023 Jets Country Player Profile: RB Israel Abanikanda (25)

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The New York Jets added to their stable of capable ball carriers by using a draft asset on Pittsburgh's Israel Abanikanda. 

The Brooklyn-born rookie provides insurance behind presumed starter Breece Hall, who is working his way back from an ACL tear. Abanikanda's presence allows for the Jets to ease Hall back into the flow with a manageable workload.

With head coach Robert Saleh championing the "competition" mantra, it's possible for Abanikanda to push Michael Carter in a battle for primary backup duties.

The speedy Abanikanda, who posted a 4.41-second 40-yard dash time during pre-draft testing, won the 2022 Atlantic Coast Conference rushing title despite missing 1.5 games due to injury.

“Izzy is a home run threat with size, speed, and production,” said Jets’ general manager Joe Douglas in late April.

The 5-foot-11 All-ACC honoree exceeded the 100-yard rushing mark in nine of 11 appearances last year.

"I can run in any type of scheme, outside zone, inside zone, under the center," said the self-scouting Abanikanda of his ability to fit into the Jets' offense. "I can also line up at slot, catch the ball and break away. Home run hitter with great ball security as well." 

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Izzy Abanikanda, Running Back

Number: 25
Current Status: Backup
How/When Acquired: Drafted / 2023 Round 5 (No. 143 overall)
2022 Final Stats: 11 GP, 1,431 rush yards, 239 att., 20 TD rushes, 6.0 ypc, 146 receiving yards, 1 TD reception  (at Pitt)

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Pinned Tweet

RD 5 | PK 143 - Jets: Israel Abanikanda RB, Pittsburgh

Abanikanda ran for 20 touchdowns in his final season at @Pitt_FB, tied for the most in the FBS. The explosive athlete recorded a 10-foot-8 broad jump and 41-inch vertical at his pro day, both in the top 5% of RBs since 2003. pic.twitter.com/OMOCNF0BAv

— Next Gen Stats (@NextGenStats) April 29, 2023