We all know the NFL is a copycat league, and that’s not a bad thing. Why not copy something that works? In 2021, what worked was the emergence of the “wide back.” The term was coined by the 49ers’ Deebo Samuel, a wide receiver doubling as running back. But it can also be applied to a running back featured heavily in the passing game. Last season, that role was epitomized by Cordarrelle Patterson. In 2022, an intriguing candidate for all-purpose breakout back could be the Jaguars’ Travis Etienne.
First, a look back at last year. In his third NFL season, Samuel became a fantasy stud – finishing third in fantasy points among wideouts. In addition to his 1,405 receiving yards, he added 365 rushing yards and scored a total of 14 touchdowns. His eight rushing touchdowns broke Hall of Famer Lenny Moore’s record for most rushing TDs in one season by a receiver.
Bob Self/Florida Times-Union
