NY Jets news: Chris Herndon attends Tight End University

Chris Herndon remains one of the biggest enigmas on the NY Jets roster. The former fourth-round pick has fallen off a proverbial cliff ever since his promising rookie season.

And he enters the 2021 season on his last legs with the organization. With his contract set to expire at the end of the season, Herndon will need to convince the Jets to keep him around past this year.

Evidently, Herndon knows this and has been working on rediscovering the 2018 version of himself. Herndon was one of roughly 40 or so players who attended Tight End University last week.

The event, organized by All-Pro tight end George Kittle and former Carolina Panthers great Greg Olsen, was designed as a summit for any and all tight ends to attend.

Herndon was the only Jets player to attend the event — certainly an encouraging development for those looking to see the former Miami star snap out of his bizarre mental funk.

The NY Jets are giving Chris Herndon one final chance this season.

A fourth-round pick in the 2018 NFL Draft, Chris Herndon emerged as one of the best young tight ends in football following a standout rookie season that saw him lead all rookie tight ends in receptions and receiving touchdowns.

His first-year numbers were nearly identical to those of future Pro Bowler Mark Andrews. Unfortunately, their respective careers have gone in completely different directions since that season.

While Andrews has flourished establishing himself as one of the best tight ends in the NFL, Herndon isn't even a lock to start this year.

The Jets explored upgrading at the tight end position this offseason and monitored Jonnu Smith's market before ultimately pulling out. That left Herndon as the de facto starter heading into this season.

The new coaching staff still believes they could tap into the potential he showed in his rookie season. although a lackluster showing in the spring didn't do him any favors.

By the time minicamp rolled around, the likes of Tyler Kroft and Ryan Griffin were receiving first-team reps ahead of Herndon. His role in the offense remains very much uncertain.

Nonetheless, it's encouraging to see Herndon taking every step necessary to revitalize his career after two disastrous seasons.

Perhaps the added practice will serve him well. For both his and the Jets' sake, let's hope it does.