Jets sign Stevan Ridley to further bolster offence

Stevan-Ridley;-New-England-Patriots;-New-York-Jets;-NFL

Stevan Ridley played in only six games last year for the Patriots before tearing his right ACL. (Bill Kostroun/AP)

FLORHAM PARK, N.J. — The New York Jets further bolstered their offence by adding running back Stevan Ridley on Wednesday.

The former Patriot agreed to a one-year deal with the team. Ridley played in only six games last year before tearing his right ACL.

"He’s excited for the opportunity and his rehab is going strong at this point," said Andy Simms, Ridley’s agent.

Ridley rushed for a career-high 1,263 yards and 12 touchdowns in 2012. He had 340 yards rushing last season before getting hurt.

New York, which has been busy in free agency under new coach Todd Bowles and general manager Mike Maccagnan, have Chris Ivory and Bilal Powell back at running back. The Jets did not pick up the option on Chris Johnson in the off-season.

The Jets traded for receiver Brandon Marshall and quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick, brought back cornerbacks Darrelle Revis and Antonio Cromartie, and also added cornerback Buster Skrine and safety Marcus Gilchrist in free agency.

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