Jets Eyeing Trent Richardson: New York May Trade Up in NFL Draft to Select the Running Back

The Jets may be making a play for the best running back in the NFL draft.

Alabama running back Trent Richardson says he has been in contact with New York about possibly joining the team. ESPN New York's Rich Cimini told his twitter followers that Richardason stated that he recently spoke with Jets management.

At NFL event today, Trent Richardson said #Jets called him Sunday to verify correct contact info just in case they trade up for him. Hmm, tweeted Cimini.

Almost every mock draft has Richardson as the first running back drafted. Many feel he won't get past the Browns at number four, but there's a chance he could be selected third overall.

The Vikings currently hold the number three selection, but have openly stated that they would like to trade it. Minnesota has Adrian Peterson at running back, so they wouldn't draft Richardson. However, another NFL team may want to acquire the pick from the Vikings to make sure they can land Richardson.

The Jets seem to be one of those potential teams.

New York selects 16th overall, and would not be able to draft Richardson if they don't make a move. The Jets have been rumored to be interested in a pass rusher in the middle of the first round, but some have speculated that they might be willing to make a trade and select Richardson.

Richardson's comments give credence to the belief that New York has at least considered putting themselves in a position to draft the star running back.

Drafting Richardson would fit perfectly with their new offensive philosophy. The Jets have stated that they are looking to run the ball more in 2012. New York hired Tony Sparano as their offensive coordinator, and traded for Tim Tebow as part of this new direction.

While the Jets have been viewed by many as a ground and pound team, they don't have a star at running back. Shonn Greene was somewhat of a disappointment last year, finishing 13th in the NFL in rushing yards. LaDainian Tomlinson completely fell off the map, rushing for just 280 yards.

Richardson could give the Jets the proper personnel to execute their offensive philosophy.

The Jets have 10 picks in the draft, and would likely have to trade several of them to acquire the third overall pick.