In order to replicate Robby Anderson’s presence as a deep-threat, the Jets needed a player who possessed a similar skillset this offseason. They got that and a tad more in Breshad Perriman.
One of the hallmarks of Anderson’s game is his ability to make big plays happen when the opposing team is in man-coverage and has no safety help over the top. His speed allowed him to take advantage of such situations, making him a frequent touchdown target during his time in New York.
Fourtanely for Gang Green, Perriman was the second-highest graded wide receiver against man coverage in 2019, according to Pro Football Focus. Saints All-Pro wide receiver Michael Thomas was the lone wideout to post a better grade than Perriman.
Perriman blossomed in the Buccaneers’ vertical passing attack toward the end of the season. Playing for his third team, his opportunity arose when both Mike Evans and Chris Godwin were sidelined with injuries. He took advantage and put up career-highs with 36 catches for 645 yards and six touchdowns. Perriman averaged 17.9 yards per reception, showing his worth as a deep-threat for Jameis Winston.
The final five games of the 2019 season are where Perriman made his money, earning a one-year deal worth up to $8 million from Gang Green. Perriman caught 25 passes for 506 yards and five touchdowns during that span.
The Jets signed Perriman believing he can replicate those numbers, rather than what the rest of his career points to. Perriman has shown flashes of potential in Baltimore, Cleveland and Tampa Bay, but the consistency just hasn’t been there for the former first-round pick.
Perriman figures to be a key part of the Jets’ offensive attack in 2020, specifically as a deep threat. While it may be a small sample size, Perriman’s numbers against man coverage in 2019 are an encouraging sign when it comes to elevating Sam Darnold’s game in 2020.
If properly utilized in Adam Gase’s offense, Perriman has a real chance to be the Jets’ new home run threat and prove that his last season in Tampa Bay wasn’t just a fluke.
