Jets TE coach explains challenge of playing position in new offense

The New York Jets have a new head coach in Adam Gase, and his scheme requires plenty from his tight ends.

There’s no denying that quarterback is the most important position in football, but the tight end spot might just be as challenging. The New York Jets are finding that out under new head coach Adam Gase.

Today’s NFL requires extreme versatility from its tight ends, from blocking with the effectiveness of an offensive lineman to pass-catching at every level of the field like a wide receiver.

New tight ends coach John Dunn knows the challenge that lies ahead for his group in Gase’s new scheme (via team contributor Randy Lange):

Tight end is a difficult position. It’s also one that’s fun to play. In Coach Gase’s offense, they do everything, and that’s the fun part. It’s also the challenging part. The attitude has been great, the work ethic has been great. Obviously, there’s the challenge, not only physically but learning a new system.

The top returning player at the position for the Jets this year is second-year stud Chris Herndon, but he’ll be missing the first four games of the regular season due to suspension. That could open the door for rookie fourth-round pick Trevon Wesco, who flashed tons of promise at West Virginia.

The Jets also recently signed Ryan Griffin, who joins Eric Tomlinson and Daniel Brown on the depth chart. Once Herndon returns from his suspension, the Jets should have a deep group with complementary skill sets that should help second-year quarterback Sam Darnold continue his upward development.

It won’t be an easy road for the Jets tight ends under the new management, but this group has the talent and versatility to rise to the challenge and make 2019 a productive year for their entire unit.

What are your expectations for the Jets tight ends this season? Give us your take in the comment section!