OWINGS MILLS, Md. -- It was only last year when running back Justin Forsett was going to speak at an elementary school in Jacksonville, Florida, and he heard that the football players there weren't going to show up because he wasn't a starter.

Now, Forsett not only ranks third in the NFL in rushing but he is beginning to gain a loyal fan following. They're starting to call themselves the Band-Aid Gang.

The name is a nod to Forsett wearing a bandage over the bridge of his nose. He's worn it since the first month of the season to cover up a bloody cut that doesn't heal because the wound gets reopened every time his helmet crashes down onto his face.

Fans have begun using #BandAidGang on Twitter to support the Ravens' surprising leading rusher, and one admirer tweeted Forsett a picture of him wearing a Band Aid just like the running back.

"It's cool that some fans are taking a liking to it," Forsett said.

While fans are liking it, Forsett said earlier this season that his family isn't a fan of the Band Aid.

"My little son, every time I come home and pick him up, he’s like, ‘Ew!’ It’s just nasty to him," Forsett said. "He won’t let me hold him too long, so that’s a problem.”

Asked why he just didn't get a new helmet, he said, “I don’t want a new helmet. I guess I’m being stubborn in that respect as far as the equipment guys. I’ve had this helmet for a long time with this style. I’m locked in on it. So I don’t mind getting the cuts.”

Forsett, who plays one of his former teams, the Jacksonville Jaguars on Sunday, is getting a warmer reception in Baltimore. Earlier this week, he watched fans line up in the rain to get an autograph from him.

"It's amazing," Forsett said. "It's a joy in my heart to see that."