Breaking down the Jets signing of Clive Walford

The New York Jets have claimed free agent tight end Clive Walford off of waivers as here’s a breakdown of what he’d bring on offense.

There is a new tight end in town with hopes of replacing tight end Austin Seferian-Jenkins who bolted via free agency. In an article written by Rich Cimini of ESPN, he confirmed that the New York Jets claimed tight end Clive Walford off of waivers.

This is yet another free agent signing by general manager Mike Maccagnan on a player that is a low-risk/high reward kind of situation. Walford was recently released by the Oakland Raiders and quickly picked up by the Jets who wanted to fill their void at tight end with an experienced player.

Walford is coming off a shortened season in 2017 due to a knee injury. Before that, Walford was a decent tight end that was trying to make a name for himself as he worked his way up the Raiders depth chart. The 6-4, 254lb tight end in his first two seasons in the NFL put up decent stats which makes this signing an interesting one.

More from The Jet Press

• NY Jets: Jonnu Smith would be a smart free-agent target
• NY Jets: 3 non-quarterback trade targets on offense
• NY Jets expected to be ‘much more aggressive’ in free agency this year
• NY Jets: Patriots will not use the franchise tag on Joe Thuney
• NY Jets officially place the franchise tag on safety Marcus Maye

In his rookie and sophomore seasons, Walford totaled 688 receiving yards, 61 receptions, and six touchdowns. Yeah, these stats aren’t eye-opening but if Walford is healed up and good to go for the Jets this upcoming season, he would be a good veteran presence for Jordan Leggett and bring some good competition to training camp.

It’s expected that either of the two will likely earn starting duties but either way, this signing is a good one. At the very least, Walford would be quality depth behind Leggett if he doesn’t end up starting. If Walford impresses and becomes the Jets top tight end, he would undoubtedly help mentor Leggett until his time comes.

If the Jets get lucky and get a healthy Walford, he could prove to be a hidden gem at tight end to help push the envelope on offense. Since the Jets offense needed some more playmakers, Walford could end up being a pleasant surprise that keeps those chains moving. He’s got good speed, runs routes well, and is looking to bounce back from a bad year that sidelined him due to injury. Hopefully, he’s healthy and ready to make some noise in the city that never sleeps.