Austin Seferian-Jenkins is poised for a huge season

By Richard Rodgers | May 31, 2017

Dec 11, 2016; Santa Clara, CA, USA; New York Jets tight end Austin Seferian-Jenkins (88) carries the ball ahead of San Francisco 49ers strong safety Antoine Bethea (41) during the fourth quarter at Levi's Stadium. The New York Jets defeated the San Francisco 49ers 23-17. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports /

The New York Jets have been searching for a Tight End worth hanging on to for several years now. Despite an underwhelming first season with the team, Austin Seferian-Jenkins appears to be ready for a very productive 2017 season.

Heading into the 2016 NFL regular season, people didn’t expect almost any production to come from tight ends on the New York Jets. It was a known fact around the league that Chan Gailey’s offense almost never made much of an effort to include the tight end position.

However, after a disappointing Week 2 loss in Kansas City, the Jets made a move to acquire former Bucs’ second-round draft pick, Austin Seferian-Jenkins. He had just been charged with a DUI causing Tampa Bay to cut ties, though his on-field talent was still recognized around the league.

Unfortunately, things never panned out for Seferian-Jenkins. Within his first few weeks with the team, he sustained an ankle injury that kept him on the sideline for several weeks. When he finally returned to full health, he wasn’t utilized all that often and never settled into a role. His final stat line on the season in seven games was 10 receptions for 110 yards and 0 touchdowns.

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Despite the switch to offensive coordinator John Morton and the addition of promising fifth-round draft pick, tight end Jordan Leggett, New York has decided to keep Seferian-Jenkins on the roster.

In this new offense, things are looking very promising for the twenty-four-year-old as he has shined thus far in OTAs.

For a start, Seferian-Jenkins has reportedly shed around 25 pounds from last season as he now weighs 260 pounds. His new figure along with his freakish athleticism and still outstanding size should make him a very versatile and effective threat.

On top of that, Morton’s offensive is expected to be very inclusive of the tight end position. With that being the case, Seferian-Jenkins should never have the lack of opportunity that he had to deal with. As a featured weapon in the offense, he’d have the chance to put up some eye-opening numbers.

With these factors considered, Seferian-Jenkins seems to be in great position for a re-emergence in 2017. His immense talent and elite physique are unquestionable, and he’ll finally be given the opportunity to make a big impact for the Jets.