New York Jets release fullback John Conner, add linebacker Marcus Dowtin – NFL News
New York Jets released their injured fullback John Conner and added linebacker Marcus Dowtin from the practice squad to fill the vacant roster spot on Wednesday, October 17, 2012.
Conner had been struggling with injuries this season. He started to have problems on his knee during the offseason. At the same time, he got a hamstring injury which kept him away from the field.
Nicknamed “The Terminator”, Conner had a great reputation among the Jets coaching staff. Jets head coach Rex Ryan believed that the team had hit a jackpot by drafting a player of Conner’s calibre.
Ryan hinted that Jets might reacquire services of Conner if needed. He said:
"There's a possibility (Conner) could be back with us. Quite honestly, we needed to get the spot."
Jets desperately needed some reinforcement in the injury-plagued defensive line and it became necessary for them to add another linebacker.
The Gang Green are also facing a lot of injuries in the offensive backfield with running back Joe McKnight and Bilal Powell both out for Week 7 game against New England Patriots.
Jets have played newly signed fullback Lex Hilliard in place of Conner this season. Hilliard has been impressive in two games he has played. Talking about Hilliard, Ryan said:
"I do really like the way Hilliard's played. He's done a tremendous job for us stepping in, not just as a fullback, but even on special teams. He's been a really good addition. With that being said, we'll see. There could be a possibility down that road
that you have both those guys on your team."
It was expected that Conner would not be able to enter 53-man active roster at the start of the season. However, he retained the roster spot after tight end Josh Baker got a season-ending injury.
In over two seasons with Jets, Conner managed to get only 21 carries for 88 yards. Conner was drafted by Jets in the fifth round (139th overall pick) of the 2010 draft.
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