Let me put it this way: Matt Forte is the No. 1 back, but he won't be an every-down workhorse. Then again, how many teams rely on one workhorse? Not many. Based on what we saw in the one preseason game they played together, you'll see Forte on first and second downs, with Bilal Powell handling the third-down duties. Forte was a three-down back during his career with the Chicago Bears, so he'll have to adjust to a reduced role.
If you're looking for numbers, I think the workload will be more balanced than it was last season. Chris Ivory averaged 16 rushes per game, Powell six. This year, you could see something like 14 for Forte, eight for Powell. The Jets have to be cognizant of Forte's age (30), and it would be foolish to wear out the tread on his tires, although offensive coordinator Chan Gailey noted they won't have Forte on a snap count early in the year.
The story went on to say the Jets think Powell is a good football player, and the Jets won't forget about him. QB Ryan Fitzpatrick said Powell will be a huge part of our offense. The author said it wouldn't shock him if the two backs are used at the same time, creating mismatches on the defense. Powell should have some PPR league value based on this amount of workload.
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