The Bills hope to get the most out of running backs Fred Jackson and C.J. Spiller in 2013. For that to happen, the Bills need to get and keep both of them healthy.
Jackson says he’s already there after a December knee injury that wiped out the rest of his 2012 season.
“I’ve been doing rehab the entire time,” Jackson tells the team’s official website. “I’ve been able to get up and do some movement on it. I have a meeting with the doctor next week. I’m sure I’ll be cleared and be able to do everything.
“I’m doing some lifting now. I’m 100-percent, I feel like it. I don’t anticipate any kind of drawbacks or anything before I get cleared by the doctors next week.”
Jackson, who turns 32 in 11 days, approaches the 2013 season with a positive attitude.
“I didn’t play well at all this season,” Jackson said. “And on top of that, to get hurt, is not a good feeling. I’ll be highly motivated going into this season. The new coaching staff, I’ve had an opportunity to meet all of them. I’m excited about their enthusiasm and what they’re going to bring to the table. I want to be a big part of what we do next year.”
He will be, if he stays healthy. But running backs rarely do. Even when they’re able to play, they’re usually hurt in some way. With Jackson and Spiller, the goal will be to keep them as close to 100 percent as possible, for as long as possible.