Jets Release Former Pitt Panthers Star RB
Title: Jets Release Former Pitt Star RB The New York Jets released running back Israel Abanikanda and signed Kene Nwangwu from the practice squad. Abanikanda is a former star from the University of Pittsburgh (Pitt) and was a four-star recruit in the Class of 2020. He is originally from Brooklyn, New York, and played high school football at Abraham Lincoln High School. During his college career, Abanikanda had a standout 2022 season, rushing for 1,431 yards and 20 touchdowns, earning First Team All-American and First Team All-ACC honors. He set a Pitt record with 320 rushing yards and six rushing touchdowns in a single game against Virginia Tech. Over three seasons at Pitt, Abanikanda accumulated 2,177 rushing yards and 28 rushing touchdowns, ranking tied for seventh in program history. The Jets selected Abanikanda in the Fifth Round of the 2023 NFL Draft. In his rookie NFL season, he participated in six games, recording 22 carries for 70 yards and seven catches for 43 yards. Abanikanda was behind Breece Hall, Braelon Allen, and Isaiah Davis on the Jets' depth chart. His release opens the possibility for him to join another NFL team and showcase his skills further.
Original Article: https://www.si.com/college/pittsburgh/football/jets-release-former-pitt-panthers-star-israel-abanikanda
Original Article Author: Dominic Campbell