Wednesday, March 13, 2013

Fullback Lex Hilliard, Jets agree to one-year deal

BY DAN BEGNOCHE

While the move likely didn’t send fans running down the street in excitement, the New York Jets solidified a fullback for the lineup Tuesday, agreeing to a one-year deal with Lex Hilliard.

The deal, first reported by Pro Football Talk, puts at least one body on the depth chart at the fullback position and brings back a reliable special teamer from last season. (photo: Pedro Cambra, Flickr)

Hilliard joined the team in mid-October after once-Rex Ryan favorite John Conner was waived. He apparently showed the team enough to get another shot at the "starting" role, though what that role will be remains a bit of a mystery for now.

Hilliard didn’t put up any eye-popping numbers in 2012 (31 yards rushing, 23 receiving), though he showed some potential in his time with Miami. It’s still unclear how new offensive coordinator Marty Mornhinweg will use the position in his West Coast-style scheme, but Hilliard’s run-blocking skills are likely what will be utilized.

Who Hilliard would be blocking for is yet another mystery at the moment for the Jets, as the team saw veteran running back Shonn Greene bail to Tennessee for a three-year deal reportedly worth $10 million. The Jets' backfield now currently consists of Joe McKnight, Bilal Powell and John Griffin.

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