Former Jets running back Ty Montgomery has agreed to terms with the Saints, according to Nick Underhill of NewOrleans.Football.
The versatile back played sparingly in New York and was an unsuccessful counterpart to Le’Veon Bell last season. Another change of scenery, especially in an environment like New Orleans that correctly utilizes versatile players, should help prolong Montgomery’s career.
Before signing with the Jets, Montgomery spent four years with the Green Bay Packers, serving as the team’s primary slot receiver in addition to being a change of pace back. Montgomery was traded to the Ravens halfway through the 2018 season, but his short stay in Baltimore was ineffective.
For his career, Montgomery has 224 rushes for 1,035 yards and seven rushing touchdowns and 120 receptions for 982 yards and three receiving touchdowns.
In one season in New York, Montgomery ran the ball 32 times for 103 yards while catching 13 passes for 90 yards. With the Jets offensive line struggling all season, Montgomery became an afterthought in Adam Gase’s offense.
There was no rhyme or reason for Montgomery’s lack of usage last season, but things didn’t work out in New York. The Saints will likely use Montgomery’s unique skillset as a running back/wide receiver hybrid to their advantage. Pairing Montgomery with Pro Bowl back Alvin Kamara should help rejuvenate the former’s career after a rather lackluster detour with Gang Green.
