Breece Hall's injury situation has become a high-stakes medical puzzle as Week 15 approaches. Interim head coach Jeff Ulbrich shared a nuanced update about the star running back's knee injury during Wednesday's media availability.
Hall appeared on the injury report after the team's bye week, preparing for the December 1 game against the Seattle Seahawks. Despite initial concerns, he played 62 percent of offensive snaps, rushing 12 times for 60 yards.
"He's been playing with a little bit of pain and fighting his way through that," Ulbrich said. "He's struggling a bit, so we'll see how he goes this week."
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The 23-year-old running back has already logged 1,093 yards from scrimmage and six touchdowns this season. His performance has been a bright spot in an otherwise challenging Jets campaign.
Breece Hall's statistical decline is notable. He's averaging 4.2 yards per carry this season, compared to 4.5 last year and 5.8 during his rookie season. Before the injury, he showed signs of improvement, averaging 4.9 yards per carry in five consecutive games.
Rookie runners emerge as potential alternatives to Breece Hall
Rookies Braelon Allen and Isaiah Davis have stepped into the spotlight during Breece Hall's absence. Against the Dolphins, they combined for 21 carries, 83 rushing yards, and seven catches for 65 yards.
Allen, a fourth-round pick from Wisconsin, stands at 6-foot-1 and 235 pounds. He's accumulated 78 carries for 283 yards this season. Davis, a fifth-round draft pick from South Dakota State, has scored touchdowns in back-to-back games.
The Jets' quarterback situation adds another layer of complexity. With Aaron Rodgers potentially in his final days with the team, the running back position becomes even more critical for future planning.
Ulbrich remains cautiously optimistic about Hall's potential return.
"If there was a structural problem impacting his future, we would definitely shut him down," he added.
With the Jets sitting at 3-10 and eliminated from playoff contention, Hall's long-term health takes precedence. His previous ACL injury adds extra weight to the medical staff's cautious approach.
The upcoming game against the Jacksonville Jaguars (also 3-10) represents more than just another matchup. It's an opportunity for young talents to showcase their potential in a season of transition.
Hall's contract situation adds intrigue to his injury management. With one year left on his rookie deal, both the player and the team have vested interests in carefully managing his recovery and prospects.
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