As he enters his sixth year in the NFL, former Alabama running back T.J. Yeldon continues to have a difficult time finding his niche in a professional backfield.
The Jacksonville Jaguars selected Yeldon in the 2015 NFL draft with the No. 36 pick in the second round. The Jaguars did not have big plans for the Alabama product. He sat behind Chris Ivory and Leonard Fournette consecutively.
His rookie season in 2015 was his best season in the league. He had his career highs in carries (182), the most yards (740) and tied for the most amount of touchdowns he’s scored in a season (2).
Those unimpressive stats are likely what started the decline in Yeldon’s opportunities to see the field and make plays, which ultimately led to him deciding to leave Jacksonville in search of a team that would help broadcast his talent and value him as a key member of the offense.
In the 2019 offseason, Yeldon signed a two-year deal with the Buffalo Bills worth $3.2 million.
After seeing how his first season went with the Bills, where he played under Frank Gore and rookie Devin Singletary, it’s safe to say there won’t be any more after the 2020 season.
Yeldon posted 17 carries for 63 yards along with 13 receptions for 124 yards. The versatility is there, but doesn’t carry enough weight to move him up the depth chart.
As the 2020 season gets closer, it appears as if Yeldon’s role continues to be in question.
Gore left the Bills to sign with in-division rival Jets. However, there is still Singletary, who is expected to take the lead, and Buffalo’s 2020 third-round pick, Zack Moss from Utah.
Yeldon may seem like a lost cause to some or a reserve player to others, but Bills head coach Sean McDermott believes Yeldon can contribute.
After the 2020 season, Yeldon becomes an unrestricted free agent. He will likely, once again, search for a backfield where he will be utilized.
It’s clear that Yeldon doesn’t have the ability to be a solo lead back for a franchise, he would fit best in a committee. His pass-catching abilities out of the backfield would make him an interesting addition to any team.
He will have to find a team that is looking towards the future. There’s no point in joining a team that’s an immediate playoff contender because they likely already have their guy.
It is also important to not assume the role of a “transitional running back.” Bouncing around the league from team to team to fill a hole for a season or two per team may work for Ryan Fitzpatrick, but it’s difficult to make a career out of it. He’ll have to find a team that wants him for as long as he wants to play.
Roll Tide Wire will keep you updated on all things Alabama in the NFL and informed on what the next step for Yeldon will be!
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