New York Jets: Matt Forte in, Bilal Powell and Muhammad Wilkerson questionable vs. Patriots

The New York Jets get one running back returning on Sunday, but may lose another and a big Mo.

The New York Jets are making final preparations for their first of two meetings with the hated New England Patriots. It could be a battle for the AFC East lead which is shocking to everyone. What it will be is a test to see how far this Jets team has come along in its development.

It looks like they will be getting back an injured running back to help them out. Matt Forte, who has missed the last two games with turf toe, practiced on Friday and will be available for Sunday’s game against the Patriots. In the past he has had moderate success against Belichick’s bunch, averaging 4.05 yards per carry, 55.3 rushing yards per game, 37.7 receiving yards per game and one touchdown over four previous matchups.

This is a good thing, as they may be without a running back on Sunday. Bilal Powell did not practice on Friday and is listed as questionable. He injured his calf last week and his status for Sunday is uncertain. He  has been running well of late, especially when thinking about the Jacksonville game and will be missed if he can’t go. Missing him will likely bring an increased role to rookie Elijah McGuire.

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Muhammad Wilkerson is also questionable with his toe and shoulder concerns. He sat out Friday’s practice as well. Some might argue that missing him won’t mean much since we haven’t heard his name called very often. However, he has played better against the run and has gotten to Tom Brady in the past. He has registered 3.5 sacks against the Patriots for his career so far.

The Jets are going to need Forte as a dual threat on Sunday. Him being at 100% could make a big difference. If Mo can’t go, someone had better get to Brady or it could be a long day.