NY Jets: 4 veterans who could surprise in training camp

2. Tyler Kroft, TE, NY Jets

Another under-the-radar signing that looks primed to play a significant role in 2021 is tight end Tyler Kroft. After striking out on Jonnu Smith, the Jets pivoted to Kroft as a cheaper, less exciting option.

Kroft isn't Jonnu Smith, but that doesn't mean he's going to take a backseat role in New York.

Despite beginning the spring as the primary backup to Chris Herndon, Kroft found himself working with the starters at minicamp with reports suggesting that Herndon was struggling to pick up the new playbook.

It will be interesting to see how the Jets deploy their tight ends this summer now that Herndon should be caught up to speed.

It should be worth noting, though, that Kroft wasn't even able to show off his full range of capabilities in the spring. The former Cincinnati Bengals tight end is a highly regarded blocker and he'll get the opportunity to show the Jets that once the pads come on in training camp.

Kroft is very much in the mix to be the Jets' de facto starting tight end, and if he managed to impress without pads this spring, imagine the impact he could make when he's in his element as a blocker.

Don't sleep on Tyler Kroft this summer.