Jets RB Zac Stacy: The coaches know I can play

By foxsports
Published

New York Jets running back Zac Stacy has been through a lot of ups and downs in his two seasons in the NFL. In his rookie year, he started 12 games, rushing for 973 yards and seven touchdowns.

Last season, those numbers fell off of a cliff. He started just five games in a crowded St. Louis Rams backfield, gaining just 293 yards on the ground. Neither season should be looked at too heavily, but Stacy is hoping to get back to his rookie-season form with his new team.

"You got to come into this league with the mind-set that it’s a business," Stacy said to the New York Daily News. "There’s no doubt about that. That’s one thing that I learned quickly. If I would have told you last year at this time that I was getting traded to the Jets, y’all would have thought I was crazy. With that being said, it’s a great opportunity here. I love it. I’m excited."

When the Rams drafted Todd Gurley in the first round, it spelled the end for Stacy's time in St. Louis with Tre Mason also on the depth chart. Fortunately, he has a new opportunity with the Jets this season, where he has an opportunity to contribute in a backfield that could use a pass-catching back like Stacy.

"I know I have value in this league," Stacy said. "I know I can play in this league. I know what I’m capable of. That’s why I’m not worried about anything. Control what you can control. Obviously these coaches brought me here for a reason. They know I can play."

First, he'll have to earn a spot on the roster in a backfield with Chris Ivory, Bilal Powell, and the currently-injured Stevan Ridley. In order to do so, Stacy will look to wow fans and coaches with his big-play ability.

"From the outside looking in, people want to see the big plays, the long runs," Stacy said. "But don’t come in each day trying to wow the crowd by trying to do too much."

In the coaches' eyes, having a back who can not only catch out of the backfield but also pass protect is key. The more versatility and flexibility you have, the better. And that's what Stacy's hoping to show.

"All those guys are versatile enough to be pass-catchers on third down, as well as blockers," head coach Todd Bowles said. "We’re not looking for a speedy back, per se, but we got a bunch of all-around backs."

(h/t NY Daily News)