Watch CBS News

Percy Harvin Off To A Promising Start With The New York Jets

By Tyson Rauch

Now that the dust has settled from the headline catching trade for wide receiver Percy Harvin the New York Jets are starting to appreciate the talent that the organization acquired.

Through his first 3 games as a Jet, Harvin has averaged 6 yards a carry, caught 17 passes, and has made a significant impact in the return game. It is safe to say that New York is just scratching the surface with Percy and the future could be very bright for Harvin and the Gang Green offense.

Diversified running attack

The New York Jets ground and pound offense features powerful running backs in Chris Ivory and Bilal Powell along with a change of pace runner in Chris Johnson. Percy Harvin adds an entirely different dimension to the rushing attack as his presence must be accounted for at all times by the opposing defense. Harvin can be used in read option formations, as a receiver out of the backfield, and in traditional sets. This type of flexibility not only expands the Jets’ running opportunities but opens up plays in the passing game as well.

Home run threat

As a pass catcher Percy Harvin can be utilized in a variety of formations: in the slot, the backfield, or outside. Harvin has the ability to get significant yards after the catch within the short passing game and the explosiveness to remain a threat in the vertical attack. This versatility keeps the opposing defenses off balance and opens up space for wide receivers Eric Decker and Jeremy Kerley, along with tight end Jace Amaro.

Hidden yards

Percy Harvin has been an instant upgrade to the Jets kickoff returns as he is averaging 27 yards a chance with a long of 65. Harvin’s reliability on returns is a sight for sore eyes and his ability to take it to the house at any time is welcomed. The hidden yards gained in the return game can help a struggling offense win the field position battles.

Great start

The early results for Percy Harvin have been very positive and the Jets can only hope that the dynamic playmaker continues to emerge. If Harvin maximizes this opportunity with Gang Green the sky is the limit for him in New York. When was the last time you said that about a player on the Jets offense?

For more Jets news and updates, visit Jets Central.

Tyson Rauch is a freelance writer covering all things NFL. His work can be found on Examiner.com.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.