Fred Jackson Injury: Updates on Bills Star's Hamstring and Return

Running back Fred Jackson fell victim to a hamstring injury on Aug. 7, but the Buffalo Bills announced he was back in action against the Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 3 of the preseason. 

A week prior to his return, ESPN's Mike Rodak reported Jackson was in full pads and helmet at practice Saturday, and pointed out the running back was taking part in 11-on-11 drills. 

Jackson is entering the 2015 season in a defined backup role for the first time in years, but he still figures to be an important cog in Buffalo's offensive attack.

Despite being the NFL's oldest running back, Jackson continues to defy Father Time. On the heels of yet another injury, however, perhaps the rigors of being an NFL player are starting to catch up with him.

The Coe College alum missed two regular-season games last season, and he has been forced out of regular-season action in three of the past four seasons overall.

Despite questions about his durability and a less secure spot on the depth chart, Jackson continues to be one of the Bills' most popular players, per Cam Boon of the Statesman:

Buffalo acquired LeSean McCoy in a surprising offseason trade with the Philadelphia Eagles, and there is no question that he will be the bell-cow back. With that said, teams need multiple rushers in order to truly have success.

Jackson is a savvy player who racked up over 1,000 total yards for the fifth time in six years last season. He was especially effective in the passing game as he reeled in a career-high 66 receptions for 501 yards.

The Bills are lucky to have plenty of depth at running back since Anthony Dixon is currently nursing a calf injury. McCoy will continue to be the main man with Jackson and Dixon out, but speedy veteran Bryce Brown and Florida State rookie Karlos Williams will have their fair share of opportunities as well.

Buffalo has a ton of question marks at quarterback with EJ Manuel, Matt Cassel and Tyrod Taylor currently battling it out for the starting job. That means the running game will be the most important part of its offense when the regular season begins.

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