NY Jets: 3 position battles to watch in 2021 training camp

1. NY Jets position battle: Tight end

As previously mentioned, the Jets will have Mike LaFleur running their offense. Coming from the Kyle Shanahan tree, LaFleur’s offense is likely to have similar philosophies of an outside zone rushing attack and play-action pass.

Yet a factor that has not been highlighted is the importance of tight ends in San Francisco. They need to be able to catch, make plays once they have the ball, and be strong blockers too. No, the Jets do not have a George Kittle, but what they do have is a solid group of tight ends.

Chris Herndon opens as the obvious starting candidate, being the most athletic of the group. He has flashed the talent to be an all-around starting tight end, except that was back in 2018. Injuries, Adam Gase, and off-field issues have stood in his way since.

Should Herndon struggle in training camp the way he did in 2020, he will lose his job. For once, the Jets have a deep battle brewing at tight end, and it will be fun to watch it unfold.

Tyler Kroft, who is a great blocking tight end, has proven to be a solid receiver in the past. It was last in 2017 when he was featured in his team’s pass game but he was running with the starters at this year's minicamp.  

What is even more interesting is what may happen behind Herndon and Kroft. Ryan Griffin has been a solid backup tight end, though has not looked the same since 2019. Thus, making the third tight end spot a competition in itself.

Daniel Brown has provided the Jets a solid special teams contributor and blocking tight end over the past two seasons. Trevon Wesco has disappointed through his first two seasons and will likely factor in as the Jets fullback. Whereas undrafted free agent Kenny Yeboah looks to flash his strong hands and playmaking to make the team.

Each of these players has a case to make this team and a case against. Thus, making for one of the most intriguing competitions for training camp.