With Jets starting running back Matt Forte ruled out for Sunday’s matchup against the Buccaneers, rookie running back Elijah McGuire could be in line for a heavy workload on offense.

Bilal Powell is also likely to get a good amount of snaps, but the workload has always been an issue for the veteran back, so McGuire is going to get involved early and often.

So far this season, McGuire has 237 yards on 61 carries and a touchdown. His best game came against the Jaguars back in October, as he ran for 93 yards and a touchdown.

While McGuire will play a lot on offense, don’t be surprised if he sees time on special teams as well. With Jeremy Kerley serving a four-game PED suspension and rookie ArDarius Stewart tweaking his groin in practice Friday, McGuire might see time as the kick and punt returner. Stewart has been ruled questionable.

Sunday could be a breakout game for the rookie running back in a variety of ways. With Forte’s injury potentially sidelining him for a few weeks, McGuire has a chance to impress his coaches and teammates with a strong performance out of the backfield.

Meanwhile, the Jets are in desperate need of some consistent production in the return game. Perhaps McGuire can prove he’s the answer.

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