MichaelCarter

News: 13 hours agoCarter was described as "a step above" the Jets' other running backs in camp by Connor Hughes of The Athletic.

Spin: Carter has worked with the first-team offense, though Tevin Coleman, Ty Johnson and La'Mical Perine remain on hand to jostle for playing time. The rookie fourth-round pick split time with Broncos second-rounder Javonte Williams at UNC, and there are concerns about whether Carter's 5-foot-8, 201-pound frame can hold up through the rigors of a starter's workload in the NFL, but Carter looks like the leading candidate to top the Jets' backfield in touches this season if he can stay healthy.

ESPN Fantasy Projection: The Jets selected Carter in the fourth round of April's draft. The North Carolina product is on the small side at 5-foot-8, 201 pounds, but is quick, explosive and a terrific pass catching prospect. Carter was very effective in 2020, averaging 8.0 YPC and running for 10-plus yards on 23% of his carries (both best in this year's class). Carter's lack of size and speed could limit him to a change-of-pace/kick returner role in the pros, but he has a path to lead back duties in New York with Tevin Coleman and La'Mical Perine his top competition. Carter's pass-catching prowess and path to a big snap share launches him into immediate weekly flex consideration.