Jamal Lewis: Goes for double or nothing and wins
Prior to the start of the 2006 season, Jamal Lewis returned to the Baltimore Ravens on a one-year deal. Despite rushing for 2,000 yards a few seasons before, Lewis had seen relatively no interest in free agency and returned, hat in hand, to the team that wouldn’t commit to him. Of course, his injuries, lack of conditioning and jail term all played a role. Lewis made a bet that his one-year deal would lead to free agent riches; but then he posted the following numbers:
- 314 carries
- 1,132 yards
- 3.6 yards per rush
- 9 rushing TDs
- 18 receptions
- 115 receiving yards
Those numbers weren’t horrible, but they were hardly the stuff of an elite franchise runner and, as a result, Lewis entered last offseason in a similar position. Many teams wondered if his best days were behind him. He found a home in division rival Cleveland, thanks to GM Phil Savage (who scouted Lewis while a personnel executive in Baltimore); but again only for a 1-year deal.
WHAT A DIFFERENCE A SEASON MAKES
The Browns are on the verge of a potential playoff berth and Jamal Lewis has enjoyed a resurgent season:
- 14 games
- 272 carries
- 1,176 yards
- 4.3 yards per rush
- 9 TDs
- 29 receptions
- 247 yards receiving
- 2 receiving TDs
Lewis posted his best yardage, yards per rush, TDs and receiving numbers since his magical 2,000-yard season in 2003. As a result? He will either sign a long-term deal to stay in Cleveland OR find himself a new home with a big upfront guarantee. Regardless of what you think of Lewis as a person or player, you have to give him credit for having enough confidence in his own abilities to play for a one-year deal in consecutive years. Looks like the 2nd time was the charm.
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