WouldYou Sign On For This TE Depth Signing If Ertz Doesn’t Work Out?

[32EBoozer]

https://heavy.com/sports/new-york-jets/jets-should-sign-te-trey-burton/

It’s no secret that the tight end position is one of the weakest areas on the New York Jets roster.

The franchise has not seen the position surpass 600 receiving yards in a single season since Dustin Keller went 65 for 815 yards in 2011, a near-decade ago. The closest was Chris Herndon, who totaled 502 receiving yards during his rookie campaign in 2018. As we know, Herndon’s career has derailed significantly since then.

Veterans Tyler Kroft and Ryan Griffin have led the lackluster tight end group throughout spring, but this is still an area where Joe Douglas could still look to add some talent. One option that I’ve suggested in the past is a trade for Philadelphia Eagles star Zach Ertz. That might cost the Jets draft capital though, even if it’s only a low-round pick.

A cheaper move would be a play for a former Ertz teammate during that 2017 Eagles Super Bowl run, free-agent tight end, Trey Burton.

Scheme Fit, Douglas Ties, Burton Makes Sense

This is a veteran player that Douglas has a ton of familiarity with. The Jets GM joined the Eagles front office in 2016, so he wasn’t there when Burton first started with the franchise as an undrafted free agent in 2014, but Douglas was involved with the decision to place a second-round tender on the tight end before the 2017 season.

During that championship campaign, Burton was a role player in the offense and a “great leader” on special teams according to head coach Doug Pederson. He had five touchdowns during the regular season and even threw the famous “Philly Special” touchdown pass on a fourth-down trick play during the Super Bowl.

Heading into his age-30 season, Burton isn’t going to be the star of an offense but he’s a versatile piece that doesn’t do anything poorly.The tight end is a decent run blocker, especially when he’s out wide in space. He should fit perfectly in Mike LaFleur’s wide-zone run scheme and could even compete with Trevon Wesco at the hybrid fullback position.

Burton is also known to be a polished route-runner with decent receiving numbers in the seasons that he received 50-plus targets. His best campaign was in 2018 with the Chicago Bears. After being brought in to be the starting tight end, Burton put up a respectable 569 yards with six touchdowns.

Cheap Insurance Policy

Herndon has been dealing with a tight hamstring in camp and the Jets should know better than to rely on the injury-prone talent for an entire season. Kroft has also had bad luck with the injury bug in the past, breaking his foot once with Cincinnati and then again with Buffalo.

Can the Jets really afford to be two injuries away from a starting tight end core that would consist of Griffin, Daniel Brown and undrafted free agent Kenny Yeboah? Burton hasn’t seemed to garner all too much interest on the free-agent market after an average season with the Colts, so he should be cheap. The only mentions of the tight end have involved a return to Indy or a chance at a starting gig with the Jacksonville Jaguars.

The Jets can afford the insurance policy, and Burton might even surprise in training camp. Either way, he’s an immediate depth upgrade on Brown and an experienced body on special teams, something coordinator Brant Boyer admitted the Jets don’t have a lot of right now.

Burton Checks Boxes

Let’s recap, what do we know about Douglas’ free-agent acquisitions of the past?

Generally, the Jets GM only wants high-character players that will provide a positive influence on the locker room. Burton has received exemplary praise in this regard.

This is also a clear area of need for the Jets. Yes, Douglas already brought in Kroft at tight end but this positional group has been a disaster for Gang Green in recent years. Burton’s reliable play helps shore up the tight end core.

Douglas also loves versatility and maximizing his roster spots. Burton is a receiving threat, a blocker that could work in at fullback, a special teams star, and a team leader. Check, check and check.

He’s also inexpensive and could prove to be a bargain as a flier with upside potential. The one area that doesn’t quite jive with Douglas’ past is Burton’s age. The Jets GM usually likes to add players that are approaching their prime and Burton is most likely past his, but that strategy usually applies more with Douglas’ long-term deals. New York could probably get Burton on a one-year contract.

[Sammybighead]

Yes, trey burton would be a fine addition.

But guys, please, F zack ertz. He fell off the cliff. He stink. Gone are the days of the Jets paying free agents based on their name and what they accomplished 3 years ago. 

[joewilly12]

Sure why not add another JAG TE to the roster. 

[32EBoozer]

6 minutes ago, joewilly12 said:

Sure why not add another JAG TE to the roster. 

There are varying levels of JAGS. I think Burton replces a lesser JAG in Griffen ($1.4m cap savings) and even Herndon if he doesn’t bring it in camp ($2m cap saving). You could pay for Burton with either of these moves. Vet minimum with performance bonus $. I’ve pretty much given up on Herndon.

I’d rather see Yeboah drop passes than Herndon …. At least Burton has been a part of winning culture

 

 

[HawkeyeJet]

I don't think we will be adding another TE.  I like Burton as a player(not as much as 4 years ago, but he's still service) but I think you will see a lot of 4 WR sets or 6 OL sets with 3 WR and the TE position will be deemphasized this season.

[32EBoozer]

14 minutes ago, HawkeyeJet said:

I don't think we will be adding another TE.  I like Burton as a player(not as much as 4 years ago, but he's still service) but I think you will see a lot of 4 WR sets or 6 OL sets with 3 WR and the TE position will be deemphasized this season.

Then we’ll be running a different system than Lefleur ran in SF. The TE gets chunk yardage in the seams and over the middle in this run heavy scheme. You want a TE for in-line blocking and pass patterns

[HawkeyeJet]

Just now, 32EBoozer said:

Then we’ll be running a different system than Lefleur ran in SF. The TE gets chunk yardage in the seams and over the middle in this run heavy scheme. You want a TE for in-line blocking and pass patterns

They also have the best overall TE in football and the best blocking TE in football in one player.  If they didn't have Kittle they wouldn't be so dependant on the TE.

[Jethead]

1 hour ago, 32EBoozer said:

https://heavy.com/sports/new-york-jets/jets-should-sign-te-trey-burton/

It’s no secret that the tight end position is one of the weakest areas on the New York Jets roster.

The franchise has not seen the position surpass 600 receiving yards in a single season since Dustin Keller went 65 for 815 yards in 2011, a near-decade ago. The closest was Chris Herndon, who totaled 502 receiving yards during his rookie campaign in 2018. As we know, Herndon’s career has derailed significantly since then.

Veterans Tyler Kroft and Ryan Griffin have led the lackluster tight end group throughout spring, but this is still an area where Joe Douglas could still look to add some talent. One option that I’ve suggested in the past is a trade for Philadelphia Eagles star Zach Ertz. That might cost the Jets draft capital though, even if it’s only a low-round pick.

A cheaper move would be a play for a former Ertz teammate during that 2017 Eagles Super Bowl run, free-agent tight end, Trey Burton.

Scheme Fit, Douglas Ties, Burton Makes Sense

This is a veteran player that Douglas has a ton of familiarity with. The Jets GM joined the Eagles front office in 2016, so he wasn’t there when Burton first started with the franchise as an undrafted free agent in 2014, but Douglas was involved with the decision to place a second-round tender on the tight end before the 2017 season.

During that championship campaign, Burton was a role player in the offense and a “great leader” on special teams according to head coach Doug Pederson. He had five touchdowns during the regular season and even threw the famous “Philly Special” touchdown pass on a fourth-down trick play during the Super Bowl.

Heading into his age-30 season, Burton isn’t going to be the star of an offense but he’s a versatile piece that doesn’t do anything poorly.The tight end is a decent run blocker, especially when he’s out wide in space. He should fit perfectly in Mike LaFleur’s wide-zone run scheme and could even compete with Trevon Wesco at the hybrid fullback position.

Burton is also known to be a polished route-runner with decent receiving numbers in the seasons that he received 50-plus targets. His best campaign was in 2018 with the Chicago Bears. After being brought in to be the starting tight end, Burton put up a respectable 569 yards with six touchdowns.

Cheap Insurance Policy

Herndon has been dealing with a tight hamstring in camp and the Jets should know better than to rely on the injury-prone talent for an entire season. Kroft has also had bad luck with the injury bug in the past, breaking his foot once with Cincinnati and then again with Buffalo.

Can the Jets really afford to be two injuries away from a starting tight end core that would consist of Griffin, Daniel Brown and undrafted free agent Kenny Yeboah? Burton hasn’t seemed to garner all too much interest on the free-agent market after an average season with the Colts, so he should be cheap. The only mentions of the tight end have involved a return to Indy or a chance at a starting gig with the Jacksonville Jaguars.

The Jets can afford the insurance policy, and Burton might even surprise in training camp. Either way, he’s an immediate depth upgrade on Brown and an experienced body on special teams, something coordinator Brant Boyer admitted the Jets don’t have a lot of right now.

Burton Checks Boxes

Let’s recap, what do we know about Douglas’ free-agent acquisitions of the past?

Generally, the Jets GM only wants high-character players that will provide a positive influence on the locker room. Burton has received exemplary praise in this regard.

This is also a clear area of need for the Jets. Yes, Douglas already brought in Kroft at tight end but this positional group has been a disaster for Gang Green in recent years. Burton’s reliable play helps shore up the tight end core.

Douglas also loves versatility and maximizing his roster spots. Burton is a receiving threat, a blocker that could work in at fullback, a special teams star, and a team leader. Check, check and check.

He’s also inexpensive and could prove to be a bargain as a flier with upside potential. The one area that doesn’t quite jive with Douglas’ past is Burton’s age. The Jets GM usually likes to add players that are approaching their prime and Burton is most likely past his, but that strategy usually applies more with Douglas’ long-term deals. New York could probably get Burton on a one-year contract.

I'd buy that for a dollar.

[Joe W. Namath]

Burton stinks.  Krofty and Herndon are fine for this year.  Tight end will be addressed early in next years draft.

[Fantasy Island]

1 hour ago, 32EBoozer said:

https://heavy.com/sports/new-york-jets/jets-should-sign-te-trey-burton/

It’s no secret that the tight end position is one of the weakest areas on the New York Jets roster.

The franchise has not seen the position surpass 600 receiving yards in a single season since Dustin Keller went 65 for 815 yards in 2011, a near-decade ago. The closest was Chris Herndon, who totaled 502 receiving yards during his rookie campaign in 2018. As we know, Herndon’s career has derailed significantly since then.

Veterans Tyler Kroft and Ryan Griffin have led the lackluster tight end group throughout spring, but this is still an area where Joe Douglas could still look to add some talent. One option that I’ve suggested in the past is a trade for Philadelphia Eagles star Zach Ertz. That might cost the Jets draft capital though, even if it’s only a low-round pick.

A cheaper move would be a play for a former Ertz teammate during that 2017 Eagles Super Bowl run, free-agent tight end, Trey Burton.

Scheme Fit, Douglas Ties, Burton Makes Sense

This is a veteran player that Douglas has a ton of familiarity with. The Jets GM joined the Eagles front office in 2016, so he wasn’t there when Burton first started with the franchise as an undrafted free agent in 2014, but Douglas was involved with the decision to place a second-round tender on the tight end before the 2017 season.

During that championship campaign, Burton was a role player in the offense and a “great leader” on special teams according to head coach Doug Pederson. He had five touchdowns during the regular season and even threw the famous “Philly Special” touchdown pass on a fourth-down trick play during the Super Bowl.

Heading into his age-30 season, Burton isn’t going to be the star of an offense but he’s a versatile piece that doesn’t do anything poorly.The tight end is a decent run blocker, especially when he’s out wide in space. He should fit perfectly in Mike LaFleur’s wide-zone run scheme and could even compete with Trevon Wesco at the hybrid fullback position.

Burton is also known to be a polished route-runner with decent receiving numbers in the seasons that he received 50-plus targets. His best campaign was in 2018 with the Chicago Bears. After being brought in to be the starting tight end, Burton put up a respectable 569 yards with six touchdowns.

Cheap Insurance Policy

Herndon has been dealing with a tight hamstring in camp and the Jets should know better than to rely on the injury-prone talent for an entire season. Kroft has also had bad luck with the injury bug in the past, breaking his foot once with Cincinnati and then again with Buffalo.

Can the Jets really afford to be two injuries away from a starting tight end core that would consist of Griffin, Daniel Brown and undrafted free agent Kenny Yeboah? Burton hasn’t seemed to garner all too much interest on the free-agent market after an average season with the Colts, so he should be cheap. The only mentions of the tight end have involved a return to Indy or a chance at a starting gig with the Jacksonville Jaguars.

The Jets can afford the insurance policy, and Burton might even surprise in training camp. Either way, he’s an immediate depth upgrade on Brown and an experienced body on special teams, something coordinator Brant Boyer admitted the Jets don’t have a lot of right now.

Burton Checks Boxes

Let’s recap, what do we know about Douglas’ free-agent acquisitions of the past?

Generally, the Jets GM only wants high-character players that will provide a positive influence on the locker room. Burton has received exemplary praise in this regard.

This is also a clear area of need for the Jets. Yes, Douglas already brought in Kroft at tight end but this positional group has been a disaster for Gang Green in recent years. Burton’s reliable play helps shore up the tight end core.

Douglas also loves versatility and maximizing his roster spots. Burton is a receiving threat, a blocker that could work in at fullback, a special teams star, and a team leader. Check, check and check.

He’s also inexpensive and could prove to be a bargain as a flier with upside potential. The one area that doesn’t quite jive with Douglas’ past is Burton’s age. The Jets GM usually likes to add players that are approaching their prime and Burton is most likely past his, but that strategy usually applies more with Douglas’ long-term deals. New York could probably get Burton on a one-year contract.

Is he related to Jack?

[32EBoozer]

10 minutes ago, HawkeyeJet said:

They also have the best overall TE in football and the best blocking TE in football in one player.  If they didn't have Kittle they wouldn't be so dependant on the TE.

He wasn’t that coming out of college. The system was in place prior to the arrival of Kittle. The system helped him become an All Pro.

He was selected with pick #146. You don’t choose to scrap your system over 1 positional player…. You train them up. If Herndon can’t shape up, Burton is more than athletic (& cheap) to get it done 

 

[sec101row23]

14 minutes ago, 32EBoozer said:

Then we’ll be running a different system than Lefleur ran in SF. The TE gets chunk yardage in the seams and over the middle in this run heavy scheme. You want a TE for in-line blocking and pass patterns

The “system” isn’t as ridged as you’re making it seem.  I’d look at the 2016 Falcons roster and see how Shanahan ran that personnel group.  Julio was the focal point, and rightfully so.   I think people need to stop thinking that the Jets are going to run a carbon copy of what the 49ers ran, it’s a lot more nuanced than that.  

[JetsFanShawn]

1 hour ago, 32EBoozer said:

https://heavy.com/sports/new-york-jets/jets-should-sign-te-trey-burton/

It’s no secret that the tight end position is one of the weakest areas on the New York Jets roster.

The franchise has not seen the position surpass 600 receiving yards in a single season since Dustin Keller went 65 for 815 yards in 2011, a near-decade ago. The closest was Chris Herndon, who totaled 502 receiving yards during his rookie campaign in 2018. As we know, Herndon’s career has derailed significantly since then.

Veterans Tyler Kroft and Ryan Griffin have led the lackluster tight end group throughout spring, but this is still an area where Joe Douglas could still look to add some talent. One option that I’ve suggested in the past is a trade for Philadelphia Eagles star Zach Ertz. That might cost the Jets draft capital though, even if it’s only a low-round pick.

A cheaper move would be a play for a former Ertz teammate during that 2017 Eagles Super Bowl run, free-agent tight end, Trey Burton.

Scheme Fit, Douglas Ties, Burton Makes Sense

This is a veteran player that Douglas has a ton of familiarity with. The Jets GM joined the Eagles front office in 2016, so he wasn’t there when Burton first started with the franchise as an undrafted free agent in 2014, but Douglas was involved with the decision to place a second-round tender on the tight end before the 2017 season.

During that championship campaign, Burton was a role player in the offense and a “great leader” on special teams according to head coach Doug Pederson. He had five touchdowns during the regular season and even threw the famous “Philly Special” touchdown pass on a fourth-down trick play during the Super Bowl.

Heading into his age-30 season, Burton isn’t going to be the star of an offense but he’s a versatile piece that doesn’t do anything poorly.The tight end is a decent run blocker, especially when he’s out wide in space. He should fit perfectly in Mike LaFleur’s wide-zone run scheme and could even compete with Trevon Wesco at the hybrid fullback position.

Burton is also known to be a polished route-runner with decent receiving numbers in the seasons that he received 50-plus targets. His best campaign was in 2018 with the Chicago Bears. After being brought in to be the starting tight end, Burton put up a respectable 569 yards with six touchdowns.

Cheap Insurance Policy

Herndon has been dealing with a tight hamstring in camp and the Jets should know better than to rely on the injury-prone talent for an entire season. Kroft has also had bad luck with the injury bug in the past, breaking his foot once with Cincinnati and then again with Buffalo.

Can the Jets really afford to be two injuries away from a starting tight end core that would consist of Griffin, Daniel Brown and undrafted free agent Kenny Yeboah? Burton hasn’t seemed to garner all too much interest on the free-agent market after an average season with the Colts, so he should be cheap. The only mentions of the tight end have involved a return to Indy or a chance at a starting gig with the Jacksonville Jaguars.

The Jets can afford the insurance policy, and Burton might even surprise in training camp. Either way, he’s an immediate depth upgrade on Brown and an experienced body on special teams, something coordinator Brant Boyer admitted the Jets don’t have a lot of right now.

Burton Checks Boxes

Let’s recap, what do we know about Douglas’ free-agent acquisitions of the past?

Generally, the Jets GM only wants high-character players that will provide a positive influence on the locker room. Burton has received exemplary praise in this regard.

This is also a clear area of need for the Jets. Yes, Douglas already brought in Kroft at tight end but this positional group has been a disaster for Gang Green in recent years. Burton’s reliable play helps shore up the tight end core.

Douglas also loves versatility and maximizing his roster spots. Burton is a receiving threat, a blocker that could work in at fullback, a special teams star, and a team leader. Check, check and check.

He’s also inexpensive and could prove to be a bargain as a flier with upside potential. The one area that doesn’t quite jive with Douglas’ past is Burton’s age. The Jets GM usually likes to add players that are approaching their prime and Burton is most likely past his, but that strategy usually applies more with Douglas’ long-term deals. New York could probably get Burton on a one-year contract.

i think that would be a ok move they have to get the D sittuason 

[32EBoozer]

1. Heavy on Jets

Jets’ Beat Reporters Hint Chris Herndon Could Be on Hot Seat

• By Michael Obermuller

• Updated Jun 21, 2021 at 10:11am

GettyNew York Jets tight end Chris Herndon warming up before a game on November 3, 2019.

The last I spoke on the subject, I called it the dramatic fall of Chris Herndon. Heading towards training camp, I’m not sure if we’ve seen the bottom.

From All-Rookie honors and a promising future to a DWI suspension, injuries and neglectful conditioning, we’ve been through the wringer with the Jets’ tight end.

He’s become a player that fans love to hope on, including me, but now it seems that expectations are starting to waiver — at least amongst a couple of the Jets beat writers.

In their minicamp round-ups, both Connor Hughes and Rich Cimini had similar takes on Herndon.

Hughes, of The Athletic, labeled it an “open competition at tight end.” He also noted that “Tyler Kroft and Ryan Griffin look like the better players” at this point.

ESPN’s Cimini told fans that Herndon “failed to distinguish himself this spring.” He added ominously: “Let’s just say he needs a strong training camp.”

According to Hughes, it doesn’t appear likely that Herndon would get cut this summer, but the generally optimistic beat writer even admitted it was a possibility. He wrote that the tight end shouldn’t lose his roster spot despite forfeiting the starting job, “at least not yet.”

This is a drastic difference from the Herndon prognosis of years past. It’s important to remember that Mike Maccagnan drafted the tight end, meaning he has no ties to this current administration.

The patience and support are running thin, and only the former Miami star can change that.

---

Tyler Kroft Stabilizes the Offense

Although Herndon has the greater potential, Kroft brings stability to this offense. He may not be as athletic, but with the current Jets’ wide receiving core, he doesn’t need to be.

More importantly, he has reliable hands and he excels as a blocker. Two things that are much more necessary of the tight end position in Mike LaFleur’s offense. If he’s making grabs like this, that’s just icing on the cake.

The former Cincinnati Bengal and Buffalo Bill definitely profiles more as a secondary tight end and safety net, which is why I advocated for Joe Douglas to try and trade for Zach Ertz, but he’s trusty enough to get the job done in a pinch. And that’s exactly what the Jets are in right now.

As the full-time Bengals starter in 2017, Kroft had his best campaign, but only totaled 404 receiving yards. He did catch an impressive seven touchdowns that season.

---

Tight End Will Not Be the Focal Point of This Unit

This position isn’t likely to be asked to do too much in this offense, at least not with the current group of players it has.

Kroft and Griffin are blockers at heart. Both can help Zach Wilson and this run-game move the sticks. Both can make the first down catches when the defense loses track of them.

Griffin has also made some plays in OTAs and minicamp. It’s not out of the realm of possibility that both of the old-school types  surpass Herndon on the depth chart.

The chemistry between the rookie quarterback and the two veterans is huge and should not be underestimated. Wilson will fall back on that trust when he’s under pressure or facing adversity.

We have not seen that same faith in Herndon or rookie Kenny Yeboah so far.

---

Might Need to Add to This Group

It’s not just the overall talent, but the injury history that scares me in this shallow group. Herndon has not stayed healthy since his rookie season and already had hamstring tightness at minicamp.

Kroft has also been derailed in the past. His main injury was a broken foot in 2018, which he later reaggravated with the Bills. If this tight end room becomes Griffin, Yeboah and Daniel Brown with Trevon Wesco as the hybrid fullback, the Jets are in trouble.

Outside of Ertz, here’s what’s left of the tight-end market in 2021.

Free Agents

• Trey Burton; a good blocker with a career-high of 569 receiving yards in 2018.
• Jesse James; released by Detroit Lions this spring, career-high 423 receiving yards in 2018.
• Tyler Eifert; has not been healthy in years and only amounted to 349 receiving yards with the Jacksonville Jaguars last season.

Other Trade Candidates 

• David Njoku; Cleveland Browns have shopped the receiving talent in the past, but have decided to keep him for the moment. Free-agent in 2022.
• O.J. Howard; unlikely but Tampa Bay has gauged interest on the former first-round pick before. With Rob Gronkowski and Cameron Brate on the roster, they could be persuaded to do so again.

The candidate that still makes the most sense to me is Ertz. He has the Philadelphia Eagles connection to Douglas and he’s a respected team leader, something that is important to the Jets GM. Burton could also make sense as a scheme fit for LaFleur.

Edited June 27, 2021 by 32EBoozer

[joewilly12]

3 hours ago, 32EBoozer said:

Free Agents

• Trey Burton; a good blocker with a career-high of 569 receiving yards in 2018.
• Jesse James; released by Detroit Lions this spring, career-high 423 receiving yards in 2018.
• Tyler Eifert; has not been healthy in years and only amounted to 349 receiving yards with the Jacksonville Jaguars last season.

Other Trade Candidates 

• David Njoku; Cleveland Browns have shopped the receiving talent in the past, but have decided to keep him for the moment. Free-agent in 2022.
• O.J. Howard; unlikely but Tampa Bay has gauged interest on the former first-round pick before. With Rob Gronkowski and Cameron Brate on the roster, they could be persuaded to do so again.

All better than what we currently have. 

[SAM SAM HE'S OUR MAN]

3 hours ago, 32EBoozer said:

1. Heavy on Jets

Jets’ Beat Reporters Hint Chris Herndon Could Be on Hot Seat

• By Michael Obermuller

• Updated Jun 21, 2021 at 10:11am

GettyNew York Jets tight end Chris Herndon warming up before a game on November 3, 2019.

The last I spoke on the subject, I called it the dramatic fall of Chris Herndon. Heading towards training camp, I’m not sure if we’ve seen the bottom.

From All-Rookie honors and a promising future to a DWI suspension, injuries and neglectful conditioning, we’ve been through the wringer with the Jets’ tight end.

He’s become a player that fans love to hope on, including me, but now it seems that expectations are starting to waiver — at least amongst a couple of the Jets beat writers.

In their minicamp round-ups, both Connor Hughes and Rich Cimini had similar takes on Herndon.

Hughes, of The Athletic, labeled it an “open competition at tight end.” He also noted that “Tyler Kroft and Ryan Griffin look like the better players” at this point.

ESPN’s Cimini told fans that Herndon “failed to distinguish himself this spring.” He added ominously: “Let’s just say he needs a strong training camp.”

According to Hughes, it doesn’t appear likely that Herndon would get cut this summer, but the generally optimistic beat writer even admitted it was a possibility. He wrote that the tight end shouldn’t lose his roster spot despite forfeiting the starting job, “at least not yet.”

This is a drastic difference from the Herndon prognosis of years past. It’s important to remember that Mike Maccagnan drafted the tight end, meaning he has no ties to this current administration.

The patience and support are running thin, and only the former Miami star can change that.

---

Tyler Kroft Stabilizes the Offense

Although Herndon has the greater potential, Kroft brings stability to this offense. He may not be as athletic, but with the current Jets’ wide receiving core, he doesn’t need to be.

More importantly, he has reliable hands and he excels as a blocker. Two things that are much more necessary of the tight end position in Mike LaFleur’s offense. If he’s making grabs like this, that’s just icing on the cake.

The former Cincinnati Bengal and Buffalo Bill definitely profiles more as a secondary tight end and safety net, which is why I advocated for Joe Douglas to try and trade for Zach Ertz, but he’s trusty enough to get the job done in a pinch. And that’s exactly what the Jets are in right now.

As the full-time Bengals starter in 2017, Kroft had his best campaign, but only totaled 404 receiving yards. He did catch an impressive seven touchdowns that season.

---

Tight End Will Not Be the Focal Point of This Unit

This position isn’t likely to be asked to do too much in this offense, at least not with the current group of players it has.

Kroft and Griffin are blockers at heart. Both can help Zach Wilson and this run-game move the sticks. Both can make the first down catches when the defense loses track of them.

Griffin has also made some plays in OTAs and minicamp. It’s not out of the realm of possibility that both of the old-school types  surpass Herndon on the depth chart.

The chemistry between the rookie quarterback and the two veterans is huge and should not be underestimated. Wilson will fall back on that trust when he’s under pressure or facing adversity.

We have not seen that same faith in Herndon or rookie Kenny Yeboah so far.

---

Might Need to Add to This Group

It’s not just the overall talent, but the injury history that scares me in this shallow group. Herndon has not stayed healthy since his rookie season and already had hamstring tightness at minicamp.

Kroft has also been derailed in the past. His main injury was a broken foot in 2018, which he later reaggravated with the Bills. If this tight end room becomes Griffin, Yeboah and Daniel Brown with Trevon Wesco as the hybrid fullback, the Jets are in trouble.

Outside of Ertz, here’s what’s left of the tight-end market in 2021.

Free Agents

• Trey Burton; a good blocker with a career-high of 569 receiving yards in 2018.
• Jesse James; released by Detroit Lions this spring, career-high 423 receiving yards in 2018.
• Tyler Eifert; has not been healthy in years and only amounted to 349 receiving yards with the Jacksonville Jaguars last season.

Other Trade Candidates 

• David Njoku; Cleveland Browns have shopped the receiving talent in the past, but have decided to keep him for the moment. Free-agent in 2022.
• O.J. Howard; unlikely but Tampa Bay has gauged interest on the former first-round pick before. With Rob Gronkowski and Cameron Brate on the roster, they could be persuaded to do so again.

The candidate that still makes the most sense to me is Ertz. He has the Philadelphia Eagles connection to Douglas and he’s a respected team leader, something that is important to the Jets GM. Burton could also make sense as a scheme fit for LaFleur.

Herndon has hands of stone .

[Joe W. Namath]

Krofty = TE1

[Larz]

Ertz?   He’s shot

Herndon was better second half of last year. One of those groups that will be upgraded next year probably 

[win4ever]

I think OJ Howard would be interesting because I thought he'd be a stud by now, but I'm not hugely invested in TE.    

Prior to the 49ers, Shanahan had Jacob Tamme, Hooper, Toliolo at TE, and in his second year, Julio (obviously), Sanu, Freeman, and Taylor Gabriel had more targets.  The Shanahan offense tends to favor Receiver 1 quite a bit (Andre Johnson, Pierre Garcon, Julio Jones, George Kittle) but that's mostly been a function of necessity than need.  There are years where he's spread them out as well (Santana Moss/Garcon in RGIII's rookie year to (Julio/Sanu/Gabriel in the SB year), so I think this emphasis on TE is overstated.  

The real thing to notice (and it seems to be a focus) is the run blocking because the run sets up the pass in this offense.  With Moses, Becton, AVT, we're very focused on run blocking to set up the scheme.  I think it's a reason why Wilson graded out so highly over Fields, because quick release is very much desired at QB for this scheme.  A lot of emphasis on misdirection, and getting players to bite, and a QB needs to release the ball quickly before the defense can recover.  It's what I think differentiated Lance and Fields as well, the ability to quickly release the ball is paramount in the offense.  

I think it's why SF has been drafting YAC guys in Ayuik and Deebo, because the whole point is to get the ball out in open space while the defense recovers, and then have your guys take advantage of angles.  Even keeping Jalen Hurd fits, you want a guy that can run in open space like a RB because they want guys that can catch a quick pass and then gain YAC.  

So I'm not really interested in the prodding TEs that can barely outrun the referee as options.  I'm intrigued by Howard because the physical tools are there for him to be a stud, but has to be phased out of TB at this point.  He would fit a bit more, because at least the tools say he can catch and run.   Otherwise, I'd rather see more focus on OL and finding more depth.   

With Waller converting to TE successfully, and I think Philly trying to do so with Hakeem Butler, I wonder if Cager could try to make that transition.  

[jgb]

We made a move for Jonnu which would’ve been a good pickup. That tells you the type of guys JD is looking for at the position. Young and ascending. If we did sign Ertz it’s be a one-year “show me” contract that wouldn’t impact cap. So only if ertz has no other real interest would he come here IMHO.

[whodeawhodat]

7 hours ago, Sammybighead said:

Yes, trey burton would be a fine addition.

But guys, please, F zack ertz. He fell off the cliff. He stink. Gone are the days of the Jets paying free agents based on their name and what they accomplished 3 years ago. 

He was injured last year for fooks sake...  The year before that he was considered top 3 in the league.

[BCJet]

8 hours ago, HawkeyeJet said:

I don't think we will be adding another TE.  I like Burton as a player(not as much as 4 years ago, but he's still service) but I think you will see a lot of 4 WR sets or 6 OL sets with 3 WR and the TE position will be deemphasized this season.

Well said.  I was shocked when I read this thread that Burton was still a FA and it seems like he would be a good fit here, but I dont  see it happening.  I cant see a scenario where Herndon isnt here, hes too talented even with the drops and Kroft is a good blocker and underrated receiver.  Those 2 with Wesco and Yeboah are a good set of TE/H-back/FB

[pointman]

We got our guy in Kenny Yeboah.

[32EBoozer]

22 minutes ago, BCJet said:

Well said.  I was shocked when I read this thread that Burton was still a FA and it seems like he would be a good fit here, but I dont  see it happening.  I cant see a scenario where Herndon isnt here, hes too talented even with the drops and Kroft is a good blocker and underrated receiver.  Those 2 with Wesco and Yeboah are a good set of TE/H-back/FB

Yeboah needs to learn how to play ST for a roster spot! Situational TE but majority of plays will need to be ST

4 minutes ago, pointman said:

We got our guy in Kenny Yeboah.

 

[Beerfish]

We do not have jags we have jastes

 

[sec101row23]

14 hours ago, win4ever said:

   

With Waller converting to TE successfully, and I think Philly trying to do so with Hakeem Butler, I wonder if Cager could try to make that transition.  

I actually thought Cager would be a decent fit as a “big slot” receiver, not necessarily a true traditional TE but someone you can use as a move TE.   
 

I also think that we will see Davis lined up inside a lot, or at least a lot more than what people are expecting right now. Shanahan utilized Julio in the slot more than any other coordinator has in Atlanta, I think LaFleur will do the same with Davis and also Mims.  Given how important it will be to get the running game going, I can see a 3 WR set with Cole and Davis on one side with Mims and a TE on the other.   This gives the Jets 3 receivers all 6’1” or taller on the field, all are really good blockers with some versatility to their games.  
 

 

 

[TheNuuFaaolaExperience]

We don't need any more depth. Ryan Griffin and Tyler Kroft are prototypical TE depth. We need a bonafide number 1 starter. Our only hope for a #1 starter is Chris Herndon, which is not saying much. Unless Kenny Yeboah becomes the next Antonio Gates, we are going to have another season with JAG TE production.

[#27TheDominator]

I think they will add another TE, but I think it will be late and cheap.  Whether it is a name or some athlete another team dumps is up on the air, but TE Is one of the places there the bottom of the roster always churns because it is the perfect spot for projects.  I also wonder how much playing time Fant will get at TE.  He was a basketball player with some college TE experience, but he only had 1 catch at Western Kentucky and 1 with the Seahawks.  

[win4ever]

I actually thought Cager would be a decent fit as a “big slot” receiver, not necessarily a true traditional TE but someone you can use as a move TE.   
 
I also think that we will see Davis lined up inside a lot, or at least a lot more than what people are expecting right now. Shanahan utilized Julio in the slot more than any other coordinator has in Atlanta, I think LaFleur will do the same with Davis and also Mims.  Given how important it will be to get the running game going, I can see a 3 WR set with Cole and Davis on one side with Mims and a TE on the other.   This gives the Jets 3 receivers all 6’1” or taller on the field, all are really good blockers with some versatility to their games.  
 
 
 

I'm interested to see how they set up the offense, because Davis was known as a good blocker in TN. If he can set up in the slot, can act as an added blocker. Mims on the outside as the X receiver, and then have Crowder/Moore as the motion guys but it'll be interesting.

But the rotation will be interesting, because Cole/Moore is better than pretty much anything we've had in awhile.

I'd love to see Cager in the Evan Engram role, basically a WR that can possibly block weakly. But not sure he's ready, but he might need more time.

[Maynard13]

On 6/27/2021 at 12:41 PM, joewilly12 said:

Sure why not add another JAG TE to the roster. 

J A G S Jets Jets Jets 

[Maynard13]

3 hours ago, #27TheDominator said:

I think they will add another TE, but I think it will be late and cheap.  Whether it is a name or some athlete another team dumps is up on the air, but TE Is one of the places there the bottom of the roster always churns because it is the perfect spot for projects.  I also wonder how much playing time Fant will get at TE.  He was a basketball player with some college TE experience, but he only had 1 catch at Western Kentucky and 1 with the Seahawks.  

Why? We have like 6 on the roster fighting for 3 spots. Fant @ TE? Let’s do QW @ FB as well. ?

[#27TheDominator]

48 minutes ago, Maynard13 said:

Why? We have like 6 on the roster fighting for 3 spots. Fant @ TE? Let’s do QW @ FB as well. ?

Fant WILL be playing TE.  Not as an actual TE, but like most teams I am sure we will use an extra tackle at times.  Fant is one that has actual TE experience and fits the mold of OT playing TE perfectly.  I am not saying he is going to replace Kittle in this offense, I just think he might get more reps there than say Wayne Hunter did in 2009. 

[slats]

I don’t think Cager makes the practice squad, let alone having a role on the offense. 

[Paradis]

Get over the TE group. This coming from me of all people. We’ll obviously be leveraging more 3 and 4 WR sets in lieu of 12 personnel or other TE featured formations. 

enough with dramatizing our tight end situation 

[Paradis]

18 hours ago, pointman said:

We got our guy in Kenny Yeboah.

Would love to be wrong, but his only window into the NFL is as a blocker, which he looked OK at times at Miss