The Jets have signed free agent running back Jonathan Grimes, perhaps to bolster a fledgling rushing game.
Despite claiming a commitment to the ground game this offseason, the Jets are the No. 17 in rushing offense in the league, averaging just 3.3 yards per carry. They have just one rushing touchdown this season.
Grimes was an undrafted free agent signed off the Texans practice squad and was the all-time leading rusher at FCS program William & Mary. This spring, he trained locally with Brian Martin at TEST Sports Clubs in Martinsville, N.J. prior to the NFL Draft.
“Jon Grimes is a multi-purpose athlete who can do a lot on the field. He has great hands, agility and quickness. His work ethic and desire is exceptional,” Martin said. “He is a smart running back who also returns kicks very well.”
Last year, Grimes had 2,510 all-purpose yards and finished fourth in the voting for the Walter Payton Award, given to the top player in the FCS.
The Jets also announced on Tuesday that they signed cornerback Donnie Fletcher to the practice squad. Fletcher was originally signed to the 53-man roster last Saturday then was released on Monday as part of a flurry of roster moves to make way for linebacker Bryan Thomas and wide receiver Patrick Turner.
Follow Jets beat writer Kristian Dyer on Twitter @KristianRDyer.
