Chris Herndon and Jordan Leggett return to OTAs

The two young promising tight ends of the New York Jets have finally returned to organized team activities as both Chris Herndon and Jordan Leggett are ready for some serious competition.

Last year, the tight end position of the New York Jets saw a resurgence thanks to Austin Seferian-Jenkins. He was a playmaking tight end that caught some touchdowns and kept those chains moving. Unfortunately, he bolted via free agency leaving a void to fill on offense.

Luckily, the Jets already had Jordan Leggett waiting in the wings despite starting his rookie season last year on injured reserve due to a knee injury. They also drafted another tight end in the 2018 NFL Draft in Chris Herndon that could also be productive when his number called.

Unfortunately for Herndon, he’s also dealing with a knee injury. Both tight ends were out of organized team activities until earlier this week. In an article written by Darry Slater of NJ.com, he confirmed that on Tuesday, both Herndon and Leggett returned to OTAs.

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It’s refreshing news since the Jets are hoping that both of these young tight ends are not only able to suit up this upcoming season but possibly have one emerge as a quality starter. With both able to resume light football activities during OTAs, their respective journeys have already begun to prepare for training camp.

If rookie quarterback Sam Darnold is going to eventually be the next franchise quarterback of the Jets, it’s important that he has the right supporting cast around him. A quality tight end that is reliable and acts as a safety net on offense will undoubtedly help in Darnold’s overall development.

Here’s to one of these young tight ends stepping up and being a pleasant surprise in the positional group. With both players returning from knee injuries, the starting spot is up for grabs. The Jets might also opt to have both in a rotational role at tight end and especially in formations featuring both players. Either way, expect new offensive coordinator Jeremy Bates to continue incorporating the tight end position in his West Coast offense this upcoming season.