The Jets have released running back Michael Carter, the team announced Tuesday. The move certainly comes as a surprise. Some thought the Jets would simply keep Carter on the bench but they choose to straight up move on from him.
Head coach Robert Saleh mentioned earlier this week that the team could be looking at some “personnel changes” to try and provide a spark for the offense. This move certainly would count as such a change.
The move paves the way for rookie Israel Abanikanda to start suiting up for the Jets. Abanikanda was injured during the preseason and has been inactive for every game this season, but that looks to change starting Sunday against the Buffalo Bills.
Carter had a solid rookie season with 639 rushing yards and four touchdowns. But his production and ability had started declining since then. He has carried the football just eight times this season as he fell behind Breece Hall and Dalvin Cook.
Carter played just eight snaps Sunday against the Raiders and was benched following his chop-block penalty in the third quarter.
Since the trade deadline has passed, Carter is subject to the waiver system. Carter was drafted in the fourth round of the 2021 draft by the Jets out of North Carolina.
We've released RB Michael Carter.
— New York Jets (@nyjets) November 14, 2023
