FB Tony Richardson
The New York Jets have signed unrestricted free agent FB Tony Richardson from the Minnesota Vikings. The announcement was made by Jets general manager Mike Tannenbaum.
Richardson (6'1", 238), a 13-year NFL veteran, entered the NFL as an undrafted rookie free agent out of Auburn with the Dallas Cowboys in 1994. In 13 seasons, he has played in 186 games and made 106 starts. He has rushed for 1,601 yards and 15 touchdowns on 407 carries and has added 201 receptions for 1,498 yards and nine scores.
"Tony will serve as a tremendous asset in both the running and passing game as well as on special teams," said Jets head coach Eric Mangini. "With nearly 200 games of NFL experience, he is a consummate professional who will serve as a great resource for our younger players."
A Pro Bowl selection following the 2003, '04 and '07 seasons, Richardson has served as the lead blocker for Priest Holmes, Larry Johnson, Chester Taylor and Adrian Peterson, helping them rush for more than 1,200 yards in a combined total of six seasons. In 1995, he paved the way for Marcus Allen to score his 100th career rushing touchdown.
During his 11 seasons in Kansas City, the Chiefs recorded four of the top five single-season rushing performances in their history.
Richardson was named Sports Illustrated All-Pro in 1999 and 2000 and All-Pro second-team by The Associated Press in 2004 and earned recognition on USA Today's All-Joe Team in 2000 and 2001.
