The Arizona Cardinals have added some depth to their running back position with the acquisition of Michael Carter off waivers from the New York Jets. Carter, a 2021 fourth-round pick, was surprisingly let go by the Jets this week despite being a key member of their backfield for the past two seasons.
Carter joins James Conner, rookie Emari Demercado, and Keaontay Ingram as the fourth running back on the Cardinals’ 53-man roster. As a rookie, Carter put up impressive numbers with 639 yards rushing and four touchdowns along with 36 receptions for 325 yards. Last season, he had 402 yards rushing and three touchdowns, along with 41 catches for 288 yards, playing in 30 games over those two years.
In his time with the Jets this season, Carter had only eight carries for 38 yards and 15 catches for 68 yards in nine games. His release comes as the Jets have Breece Hall and Dalvin Cook as their top two backs this season.
To make room for Carter, the Cardinals released offensive lineman Doug Kramer Jr., whom they had just claimed off waivers last week. With Conner leading the way as the main running back, Carter’s addition provides a potential boost to the Cardinals’ backfield as they continue their push towards the playoffs.