Wednesday, July 9, 2014

Curtis Martin says CJ2K is still one of best in NFL

BY NICK ST. DENIS

Former New York Jets running back Curtis Martin is one of the greatest of all time.

The Hall-of-Famer thinks Gang Green's newest running back, ex-Tennessee Titans speedster Chris Johnson, is one of the greatest of his time.

"With things even across the board -- the blocking is the same, quarterback is the same -- I still think he's one of the best running backs in the league," Martin said recently, via ESPN New York. "I'll say this: He has as much talent as anyone in the league."

Those comments come around the same time Jets offensive coordinator Marty Mornhinweg called Johnson a "first-ballot Hall of Famer."

One thing is clear, whether or not you subscribe to either of the aforementioned opinions, those closest to the team clearly have sky-high expectations for the perennial 1,000-yard rusher who eclipsed the 2K mark in 2009.

The 28-year-old running back joins Chris Ivory, a pure battering ram, to provide versatility in the Jets' offensive backfield. His outside-the-tackles style complements Ivory well, and he's capable of taking on an every-down role if need be, assuming he can stay healthy.

Johnson has amassed 50 rushing touchdown in six years and has made a career out of his world-class speed.

"He's unique because, at any moment, he can score," Martin said.

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