Jets sign fifth-round pick Israel Abanikanda

Another draft pick is ready to roll with the Jets after signing his contract. The Jets have signed fifth-round pick running back Israel Abanikanda.

#Jets have signed RB Israel “Izzy” Abanikanda, a fifth-round pick.

He’s the second of NY’s draft picks to sign their rookie deal, joining DB Jarrick Bernard-Converse.

— Dennis Waszak Jr. (@DWAZ73) May 5, 2023

Abanikanda, the Jets pick at No. 143, ran for 1,437 yards and 20 touchdowns in 2022 and was a Third-Team AP All-American.

The Pittsburgh running back had nine games with over 100 rushing yards including a 320-yard performance against Virginia Tech.

Abanikanda becomes the second draft pick to sign, following sixth-round pick Jarrick Bernard-Converse.