(Photo: US Presswire)
By Ryan Alfieri, Editor
While all of the attention is on the Jets finding to their dire situation at right tackle, the Jets’ coaches are trying to improve another area of the team that is not often talked about: fullback.
The Jets already brought in Fui Vakapuna to compete with Conner, but he was released at the start of camp.
Now the Jets are going to think outside the box once again, using linebacker Nick Bellore as a fullback.
Bellore is a solid special teams and depth player that is being pushed down the depth chart with the addition of Demario Davis. In an effort to keep around a quietly productive player who knows the system, Bellore practiced in a white offense jersey on Monday, according to ESPNNewYork’s Rich Cimini:
With John Conner the only true fullback on the roster, the Jets are exploring other options. It looked weird, seeing a No. 54 (Bellore’s number) running pass routes.
Conner, known for his big-time hits in practice, has been largely inconsistent as a starter, making too many mental mistakes for coaches’ liking. As a runner, Conner failed to come through on two short-yardage attempts in the preseason game against the Giants, which may have been the last straw for Rex Ryan.
This is not the first time the Jets have turned defenders into offensive prospects. Guard Matt Kroul was a former defensive tackle before making the switch to guard last summer.
It seems a bit unlikely, but if Bellore can outplay Conner over these next two weeks, the Jets could save themselves a roster spot while keeping around a player who plays offense, special teams, and provides depth on defense.
