DETROIT -- The New York Jets will be short on running backs when they face the Buffalo Bills Monday night at Ford Field.
Backup Bilal Powell is inactive due to an illness, according to the team, leaving only two running backs and a fullback -- Chris Ivory, Chris Johnson and John Conner. Powell was seen before the game talking to the medical staff on the field.
In 10 games, Powell has rushed 22 times for 102 yards. He also has five receptions for 50 yards.
Powell averages 16 snaps per game, mostly as the third-down back. Look for Johnson to assume most, perhaps all, of the third-down responsibilities.
The Jets' other inactives for Monday are: quarterback Matt Simms, wide receiver Walter Powell, cornerback Josh Thomas, linebacker IK Enemkpali, guard Dakota Dozier and guard Wesley Johnson.
For the Bills, running back Fred Jackson (groin) is active, as expected. Their inactive players are fullback Fred Summers, tight end MarQueis Gray, linebacker Randell Johnson, tackle Cyrus Kouandjio, wide receiver Marquise Goodwin, defensive end Jarius Wynn and defensive end Bryan Johnson.
