New York Jets

Louisville Football: How is Bilal Powell doing in the NFL?

Published Jun. 30, 2017 6:28 p.m. ET

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Former Louisville running back Bilal Powell is currently a major part of the New York Jets as we take a look at how his 2016 campaign is going.

The former Louisville football product has solidified himself a spot on the New York Jets roster because of his solid play over the last six seasons in the NFL. He is mostly used at a third down back, but usually finds himself on the field in multiple ways throughout the game. He may be the most important third down back in the AFC.

The Jets signed veteran running back Matt Forte in the offseason. Naturally, he has been the featured back for New York this season, but usually finds himself on the sideline for third downs. The Jets love to pass the football, which usually forces the Jets into third and long situations.

With that being said, because of the up and down passing of the Jets, Powell is on the field a lot for New York. Here are his stats through the first four games of the season, courtesy of ESPN.

Cincinnati Bengals at New York Jets: 4 carries, 41 yards rushing, 2 receptions, 7 receiving yards

New York Jets at Buffalo Bills: 1 carry, two rushing yards, 1 reception, 1 receiving yard

New York Jets at Kansas City Chiefs: 4 carries, 30 rushing yards, 6 receptions, 41 receiving yards

Seattle Seahawks at New York Jets: 4 carries, 26 rushing yards, 6 receptions, 54 receiving yards

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You should be seeing a predictable progression with Powell’s stats with the Jets. The only week that Powell didn’t play much was against the Bills. That was a Thursday night game where Matt Forte had over 100 yards and three touchdowns. It was smart to keep Forte in the game, pounding the ground game on third and short.

Louisville Football fans should be proud of how well Bilal Powell has proven himself in the National Football League. Hopefully he will find himself a featured back role before his career is said and done. Until then, he will be doing everything asked of him and more for the New York Jets.