2019 Fantasy Football Outlook: Jets TE Chris Herndon

With the 2019 NFL season and fantasy football fast approaching, here’s our 2019 Fantasy Football Outlook for New York Jets tight end Chris Herndon.

For the majority of the 2018 NFL season, the New York Jets offense was downright abysmal, but at times, there were a few bright spots present on the unit and rookie tight end Chris Herndon was certainly one of them. The same held true for fantasy football owners.

Given the fact that he had previously dealt with injuries and that he was arrested last summer prior to the start of the NFL season, it was a bit unclear what the Jets were going to get out of the 6’4” tall,  250-plus pound University of Miami product that they drafted in the fourth round. As the season progressed, however, it soon became evident that the Jets may have found a diamond in the rough with Herndon.

On the 2018 season as a whole, the 23-year-old brought in 39 receptions for 502 yards and four touchdowns. Perhaps more importantly, however, he slowly but surely developed noticeable chemistry with fellow rookie Sam Darnold and proved to be a reliable weapon for the quarterback on an offense that was lacking in that department.

For those reasons alone, it’s expected that Herndon, like Darnold, will continue to progress in 2019, which could make him an attractive option for fantasy owners. And aside from those reasons, the Jets seem to be in a much better situation not only offensively but as an organization as a whole heading into 2019, which should also help players like Herndon continue to improve.

First and foremost, the Jets offense heading into the upcoming season appears to be in a much better spot. With the additions of key players such as star running back Le’Veon Bell and slot receiver Jamison Crowder, the Jets offense is primed to reach a new level.

Also, the hiring of new head coach Adam Gase, known as an offensive guru, is expected to pay dividends for the green and white. Not only is he expected to take Darnold to the next level, but he’s expected to be much more creative with his play calling, using his players in a far more unique fashion than his predecessor did.

In regards to how all of this impacts Herndon, it’s likely that these changes will help elevate his play. Being surrounded by a more talented unit, for example, is crucial for a young player looking to make it at the highest level.

In addition, Gase, who has labeled Herndon as a ‘unicorn’, coming up with different ways to use Herndon will also likely be a difference maker for the tight end, whose connection with Darnold has reportedly continued throughout OTAs and minicamp.

Ultimately, Herndon appears to have not only a bright 2019 but a bright career ahead of him. He still may be a bit of a way away from being a top tier NFL tight end, but he could be a sleeper pick for fantasy owners to consider at tight end or at the FLEX position.