Former New York Jets running back Michael Carter hinted that behind-the-scenes drama led to him being released from the team.
Carter was released by New York on Tuesday shortly after a players only meeting, before being claimed off waivers by the Arizona Cardinals on Wednesday.
‘I think there is a lot that went on behind the scenes that led me to not be surprised,’ Carter said Thursday about the move, via multiple reports.
It’s just a blessing to be here and I love my teammates back in New York. Those are my brothers and they know that, so what is understood doesn’t need to be explained and they got my number. Those are my guys, I love them.’
Despite revealing he wasn’t surprised by his release Carter did not specify if he requested the transaction.
‘I’d rather not answer that question,’ said when asked if he requested the release.
Carter’s usage in New York had diminished greatly since he was selected in the fourth round of the 2021 NFL Draft.
During his rookie season Carter recorded 639 rushing yards and four touchdowns, on 147 carries. He also had 36 receptions for 325 receiving yards.
Carter’s numbers then dropped off in 2022 after the Jets selected RB Breece Hall in the second round of the draft, before losing out on even more playing time once New York signed Dalvin Cook as a free agent to split carries with Hall.
The 24-year-old tailback was essentially demoted to being the Jets third down back this year and had recorded just 38 rushing yards on eight carries and 15 receptions for 68 yards through nine games.
He was benched in his final game as a Jet after being penalized for a chop block. Carter was only on the field for eight snaps during his final appearance in Green and White.
When speaking on the choice to release Carter during the week, Jets head coach Robert Saleh said the decision to cut Carter was made to give rookie RB Israel Abanikanda the chance to get playing time.
Carter on the other hand gets the chance to start fresh with a new organization which he seems to be looking forward to.
‘I’m very grateful to be here,’ Carter said. ‘Just the chance to have a fresh start. Somewhere I feel appreciated. I feel like we all chase that and crave that.’