The New York Jets might find themselves without a solid option at tight end as free agency unfolds. According to ESPN’s Rich Cimini, it seems unlikely that Tyler Conklin will return to the team. Zack Rosenblatt of The Athletic noted that Conklin has generated significant interest on the open market, while NFL analyst Will Parkinson confirmed that multiple teams are pursuing him.
Jets Face Limited Options in Free Agency
If Conklin departs, the Jets will have few viable alternatives in free agency at the tight end position. Pro Football Focus recently released a list of the top 200 free agents, and the only notable tight end remaining is Evan Engram, who was recently released by the Jacksonville Jaguars.
However, NFL Network Insider Tom Pelissero reported that Engram has already visited with the Denver Broncos and the Los Angeles Chargers, suggesting that he may not be available much longer. If the Jets miss out on him, they will have to look elsewhere to address their need at tight end.
At the moment, the only tight end under contract for the Jets is Jeremy Ruckert. The 24-year-old was drafted in the third round in 2022, but his production has been limited. Over three seasons, Ruckert has recorded 35 receptions for 264 yards but has yet to score a touchdown in his career. Although he previously played with new Jets quarterback Justin Fields at Ohio State, expectations for Ruckert’s impact remain low.
Jets May Need to Turn to the 2025 NFL Draft
With free agency options running out, the Jets may be forced to address their tight end needs through the 2025 NFL Draft. The most promising prospect at the position is Tyler Warren from Penn State. However, if the Jets’ need at tight end becomes too obvious, they risk being leapfrogged by another team that also wants Warren.
Daniel Jeremiah, a former scout and current draft analyst, ranks Warren as the fifth-best player in this draft class. He describes Warren as a dominant presence who played a crucial role in Penn State’s offense. Standing at 6-foot-5 and weighing 256 pounds, Warren possesses an impressive catch radius and physicality that make him a difficult matchup for defenders. Though he lacks elite route-running separation, his ability to wall off defenders and make contested catches sets him apart.
Jeremiah compared Warren to former NFL star Rob Gronkowski, stating that while he may not be as dynamic, he shares similar traits in his play style. Warren’s strength in both the passing and running game could make him an ideal fit for the Jets, but they will need to ensure they secure him before another team jumps ahead in the draft order.
Leave a Reply