NY Jets: 3 most surprising players to make the 53-man roster

3. Daniel Brown, TE, NY Jets

Perhaps it shouldn't come as a surprise when the player who led the Jets in special-teams snaps a year ago makes the team. Daniel Brown is a core special teamer and a favorite of special-teams coach Brant Boyer.

But despite no Jets player being used on special teams more over the last two years than Brown, it seemed like the veteran tight end was destined for the practice squad this year.

With Herndon, Tyler Kroft, and Ryan Griffin all ahead of him on the depth chart — plus tight-end-turned-fullback Trevon Wesco — it appeared as though Brown was on the outside looking in.

Even Kenny Yeboah seemed like he had a chance to make it over Brown following his excellent showing in the team's final preseason game.

And then Herndon was traded and Yeboah was cut. Griffin and Brown soon joined them as they were released as part of final cuts, but they were quickly re-signed once IR designations were made.

Many hoped that the Jets would make an external addition at the tight end position once Griffin and Brown were released. Instead, the Jets simply opted to roll with what they had on their roster instead.

And just like that, Daniel Brown survived another round of cuts. Expect him to re-assume his role as one of the team's leading special-teamers.