8 NFL Veterans in Danger of Losing Their Jobs

Jacquizz Rodgers, Chicago Bears

Both Jacquizz “Quizz” Rodgers and Ka’Deem Carey might be at risk after the draft. One of these players is a career backup who never got a chance. One is a 2014 rookie who likely never will either. Rodgers spent his best years as the backup to Michael Turner in Atlanta but never had a year below 80 opportunities (rushing attempts plus targets). His strength has always been receiving work; his average Target NEP in a season is 5.76. Sadly, however, he also has never had a more prolific rushing year than -2.22 Rushing NEP.

Carey was drafted in the fourth round of the 2014 NFL Draft and quite deservedly was relegated to a backup role as lead back Matt Forte brought in a 366-touch season last year. Carey didn’t thrill at last year’s Combine, as he was slower than expected in most drills, but still was afforded 43 opportunities and had a positive Rushing NEP, a positive Reception NEP, and a positive Target NEP.

The Bears selected Michigan State running back Jeremy Langford in the fourth round of this year’s draft, a big-bodied back with immense speed-to-power translation ability, according to our own Michael Luchies. With a little opportunity and a few choice showings in preseason, Langford could displace the back-end vets with ease.