With the Oakland Raiders parting ways with Josh Cribbs after an unimpressive training camp and preseason, the team will turn to 26-year-old Jacoby Ford once again their kick returner.
Although Ford will likely also get some time on the field as a wide receiver, Ford will primarily be used on special teams. Ford’s speed set him apart from Cribbs and as long as he’s able to stay healthy, the veteran kick returner may have an impact on this team this season.
Ford is looking forward to returning kicks once again this season saying the following via Scott Bair of CSNBayArea.com:
“You have to love returning kicks and I certainly do,” Ford said. “It’s something that can give the team a spark and get fans on their feet. Field position is so key, especially with a kicker like (Sebastian Janikowski). It can really help us score points.”
Ford also spoke about finally being healthy via Bair:
“I’m healthy,” Ford said, “And I’m really excited about this season.”
As long as Ford can stay healthy, the Raiders may be able to stay competitive this season with the Clemson product putting the Raiders in good field position on a consistent basis this season. Health has been Ford’s biggest flaw over the course of his career with his inability to stay on the field, but if healthy, Ford can be a huge asset for this team moving forward.
