(Photo by Jared Wickerham/Getty Images)
No, you read it right. The little 5'8'' running back from Chadron State is getting his first real crack at the NFL. That's right, folks. An active roster spot, actual playing time, and a shot at proving himself with the big boys.
Oh, but this time it will be at receiver.
Woodhead, who impressed in his final preseason game with over 100 yards rushing and two touchdowns, was signed to the Jets practice squad early in September.
However, until the Jets traded away Chansi Stuckey and learned they could be without starting receiver Jerricho Cotchery, he wasn't needed. Especially since he wasn't even a receiver.
While Woodhead was a fan and team favorite, and impressed the coaching staff, he was simply the odd man out as the fourth running back on a team with three solid, proven backs. That, and the fact that he isn't an elite special teams player, led to his release and eventual placement on the practice squad.
That brings us to this whole "receiver" talk.
Woodhead had been practicing in week two with the practice squad in a "Wes Welker" role, impersonating the Patriots receiver to help prepare the defense. Apparently the role-playing helped more than just the defense.
With injuries and impressive practice work combining their efforts, reports state that Woodhead could be activated this week, possibly placing him on the roster for the Jets game against the Buffalo Bills.
It's become apparent that Woodhead is much too shifty, elusive, and fast to not be used in this league, while his size and lack of bulk hinders his productivity and potential as an in between the tackle runner.
But all of those positive attributes can be put to good use if his transition from running back to receiver pans out.
With injures to Cotchery and Brad Smith, we could find out as early as this Sunday if Woodhead has a future in this league.
And if you know anything about this kid, you'll know that all he needs is a chance.
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