FLORHAM PARK -- Matt Forte will be the Jets' offensive workhorse this season. Bilal Powell figures to be his regularly-used complement. That's not a bad 1-2 punch, considering they combined for 2,186 total yards a year ago.

But could rookie Elijah McGuire work himself into the running back rotation?

"He will contribute," running backs coach Stump Mitchell said during minicamp. "He has no choice."

The Jets selected McGuire, 23, in the sixth round of this year's draft. He's the first running back taken by Mike Maccagnan since he took over as general manager in 2015. The Jets believed McGuire was too good of a talent to pass up at that point, so they didn't. It's not hard to see why they felt that way.

McGuire played four seasons at Louisiana-Lafayette. He totaled 5,695 yards from scrimmage, and scored 52 touchdowns. The 5-10, 214-pound back was a threat as a runner (6.1 yards per carry average), but also caught 130 balls out of the backfield.

Mitchell believes he can bring that versatility to the Jets offense.

"I like everything (about him)," Mitchell said. "He's got great hands. As a third-down back or simply a back, he can catch the ball extremely well. He has good vision, and a good ability to make cuts. I like him. He's a student of the game and good in the classroom."

In organized team activities and minicamp, the Jets used McGuire everywhere. He received reps as a kick and punt returner, and as a back. He worked as the starter on special teams, and after the two starters on offense. As coach Todd Bowles builds trust in the rookie, he'll likely earn even more reps.

But as talented as McGuire may be, it's unlikely he replaces Forte or Powell this year. The Jets want him to keep both fresh. Forte and his 2,770 career touches turn 32 midway through the season. Powell has always been a bit injury prone. The Jets can't afford to lose either.

Considering the (presumed) sorry state of the quarterback positions, the Jets will need a strong running game to keep the offense afloat. If injuries take Forte or Powell out of the lineup, things could get ugly.

A few touches here and there for McGuire can not only give the back a chance to show what he can do, but also keep the two men in front of him healthy throughout the year.

"He wants to be involved," Mitchell said of McGuire. "He doesn't want to sit on the sideline and cheer. He wants to have the opportunity to play. And that's a big part of it."

Connor Hughes may be reached at chughes@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @Connor_J_Hughes. Find NJ.com Jets on Facebook.