JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (AP) — The Jacksonville Jaguars are so banged up at running back that they’re turning things over to their special teams ace.
With Maurice Jones-Drew, Jalen Parmele and Rashad Jennings injured, the Jaguars (2-10) are giving fourth-team running back Montell Owens the start Sunday against the New York Jets (5-7).
Owens is a two-time Pro Bowler, but earned both trips with his special teams play. He ran seven times for 29 yards last week at Buffalo, giving him 21 carries for 112 yards in his seven-year career.
He calls it a “chance to showcase” himself. In a different way.
Owens isn’t the fastest guy on the field, doesn’t have the best hands and isn’t the most skilled blocker. But he has become a mainstay in Jacksonville because of his versatility and durability.
