Although Ryan Fitzpatrick, Brandon Marshall and Eric Decker were the big story for New York's offense this season, the Jets also ranked 10th in rushing. With Chris Ivory headed for free agency, that's a big offensive void to fill.
Rich Cimini suspect the Jets, who have some key pieces of their offensive line to lock up, won't be able to afford to keep Ivory around. So somebody else will need to step into Ivory's role.
It won't be Bilal Powell, who became a nice third-down back and pass catcher for the team this year. That leaves Zac Stacy, but he was pretty ineffective last season (2.9 yards per attempt). New York could bring back Stevan Ridley, an unrestricted free agent, but Ridley was even less effective than Stacy (2.5).
But Ridley was coming off a torn ACL, so maybe a year later, he'll be more effective, and worth bringing back. Those in dynasty leagues with open waiver wires (and deep rosters) can consider adding one of them, because that player move atop the depth chart next year. New York figures to be in the market for a back via the draft, as well.
As Cimini's article notes, there will be a lot of running backs available in free agency. Matt Forte, Lamar Miller and Alfred Morris are all expected to be available. Doug Martin is a free agent, but unlikely the Bucs let him get away.
With that many names available, maybe Ivory ends up back with the Jets after all. Whoever winds up starting could put up some decent numbers next season.
--Andy Richardson