WATCH: Michael Carter finds the end zone for first NFL touchdown
Rookie running back Michael Carter has found the end zone for the first time in his NFL career for the New York Jets. Carter got a carry with the Jets on the goal line in the second quarter of Sunday’s game against the Tennessee Titans, and he pushed through the line for the score.
Carter’s touchdown cut the Titans’ lead to 9-7. He had 15 yards and the score on his first seven carries in the game, also adding one reception.
Carter’s role continues to grow with the Jets
Throughout the season, Carter’s role has continued to grow on the Jets offense. In Week 1, Carter had just five touches for eight total yards in a loss to the Panthers. In Week 2, he had 11 carries and two receptions for 62 total yards. Last week, Carter had 11 touches for 27 yards.
While Carter is part of a three headed running back by committee, the rookie out of North Carolina could play a vital role for the Jets as the season progresses. Entering Week 4 against the Titans, Carter led Jets running backs with 24 carries, and his five receptions also lead the group. Carter also led the team with 89 rushing yards on the season. His second quarter touchdown was the Jets’ first rushing touchdown of the 2021 season.
The Jets selected Carter with the 107th overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft out of North Carolina. Carter had a significant role on the Tar Heels’ offense in each of his four collegiate seasons. In his first two seasons in Chapel Hill, Carter totaled 181 carries for 1,156 yards and 10 touchdowns, adding 36 receptions for 235 yards and two scores. Carter rushed for 1,000 yards in each of his final two seasons with the Tar Heels.
Last season was Carter’s most productive in college, as he had 1,245 yards and nine touchdowns on 156 rushing attempts. He also had 267 yards and two touchdowns on 25 receptions as a senior. Overall, Carter had 3,404 yards rushing, 656 yards receiving, and 28 touchdowns in his collegiate career.