New York Jets coach Todd Bowles said at the end of the season that he wants to improve the team's speed. The Jets did that on Wednesday, signing former Pittsburgh Steelers kick returner Dri Archer to a reserve-future contract.
Archer is best known for running the 40-yard dash in 4.26 seconds at the 2014 scouting combine, the second-fastest time in combine history. It raised his draft stock to the point where he was selected in the third round by the Steelers.
His production hasn't matched his speed, as the 5-foot-8 Archer has a career kickoff-return average of only 22.4 yards. As an offensive player, he has just 10 rushes for 40 yards and only seven receptions. The Steelers are a patient organization, but they gave up on him after less than two seasons, releasing him last Nov. 5.
The Jets, who considered signing Archer late last season, have an obvious need for a kickoff returner.
