The New York Jets have a huge decision to make this offseason at the running back position, which the team is now expected to tag Breece Hall. According to a source, rather than a traditional franchise tag, the Jets are most likely going to use a “transition” tag to offer the Jets some flexibility in moving Hall to a different team. This is interesting considering that Hall is a free agent either way, but the Jets don’t want him to leave. However, this could lead to Hall demanding that he wants out of New York if the Jets wind up tagging him.
Jets Expected to Tag Former Second Rounder Breece Hall – Likely Lead to Trade
A trade is the likely scenario in this situation. After spending his entire career with the Jets, they’re not a winning roster, and with the team expected to cut quarterback Justin Fields, it’s not sensible to keep a player who is likely to thrive elsewhere. The Jets were open to trading Hall before the trade deadline to the Kansas City Chiefs, but they were unable to meet their asking price. New York wanted a third-round pick, but the Chiefs offered a fourth-rounder.
Ultimately, the Jets kept Hall for the rest of the season, recording a breakout of 1,065 rushing yards for four touchdowns. Hall should have the best market available if the Jets decide to let him test free agency. Of course, the Jets might find a way to keep him to get something in return, such as a draft pick or compensation, if he leaves. It’ll be interesting to see what happens here, but the former Jet should be able to sign with these three teams as the best fits for his career.
Potential Destinations
Washington Commanders
After trading away Brian Robinson Jr. this past year, the Washington Commanders have been trying to rebuild their running back room. Jacory Croskey-Merritt had his chance to establish himself as an adequate starter, but it looks like he needs to take a step back. With Jayden Daniels entering his third year, the Commanders need to nail down some keystone offensive players to help him. Austin Ekleler is not expected to be back, along with several other veterans, so the team signing Hall makes sense.
The Commanders have enough cap space to compensate for Hall’s long-term contract. Croskey-Merritt can learn behind Hall for a couple of years and team up with him in situational redzone scenarios.
Arizona Cardinals
Meanwhile, the Cardinals were close to having a well-rounded roster, but they need to upgrade their running back room. However, the priority will be the quarterback position. With the team expected to cut Kyler Murray, the Cardinals are rumored to part ways with James Conner.
The team is one quarterback and running back from having a blockbuster offense. Trey McBride, Marvin Harrison and Michael Wilson could benefit from the stardom of Hall. Head Coach Mike LaFleur should try to lock him in Arizona while finding a long-term solution in free agency for the quarterback position.
New Orleans Saints
Even though Alvin Kamara doesn’t want to leave New Orleans, the team is not a place where they’re contenders. The team is slowly rebuilding under head coach Kellen Moore and Tyler Shough. Kamara is getting too old and is likely to slow down in two more seasons. Hall’s possible addition could set this running back unit back to success, which they failed to do last offseason.