​Between now and training camp, we will be examining the Jacksonville Jaguars’ complete 90-man roster, previewing each player as we go. Up next is running back Ameer Abdullah, who dons No. 43. He stands 5-8 and weighs 203 pounds, entering the league at age 33 with 12 years of NFL experience. Abdullah played college ball at Nebraska before entering the NFL.
Abdullah was selected in the second round of the 2015 NFL Draft by the Detroit Lions, where he spent four seasons through 2018. Following his stint with Detroit, he joined several other NFL clubs, including the Minnesota Vikings, the Carolina Panthers, the Las Vegas Raiders, and most recently the Indianapolis Colts. The Jaguars added Abdullah to their roster in May of this offseason.
His path into and through the league has included a brief stop with the San Francisco 49ers in July, followed by an injury-related placement on injured reserve in August. He later found a new opportunity with the Colts, initially joining their practice squad early in the 2025 season. By mid-October, Abdullah had earned a promotion to the Colts’ 53-man roster. In that timeframe, he carried the ball 14 times for 60 yards and scored one rushing touchdown, while also contributing in the passing game with 16 receptions. He even took on some return duties, offering value on special teams.
Abdullah brings more than a decade of professional experience to the Jaguars’ running back room, but his goal is to demonstrate that he can contribute in ways beyond merely serving as a veteran presence. That opportunity could materialize if Jacksonville opts to roster four running backs, which would give Abdullah a real shot at aligning with the team’s offensive plans.
Ameer Abdullah is a versatile performer, bringing reliable pass-catching ability and kickoff return experience to the table. His skill set enables him to contribute across multiple special-teams units, which could be where he makes his most significant impact if he lands a spot on the final roster. If he makes the team, fans and coaches alike may see Abdullah used in a variety of roles that maximize his agility, versatility, and game experience.
This refreshed profile of Ameer Abdullah is part of our ongoing series exploring the Jaguars’ 90-man roster and evaluating how each player could fit into the configuration for the upcoming season.