With the departure of Dustin Keller, the New York Jets needed to fill the starting Tight End position. Many figured that the Jets would draft a top-tier tight end or spend some big money in free agency.
The Jets brass stood pat, and put their focus on bringing back four-year veteran Jeff Cumberland.
Cumberland, who has been the back up to Dustin Keller (now with the Dolphins) gets a chance to seize hold of the tight end position.
Last season Cumberland started twelve games, and had career highs in receptions (29), yards (359), and touchdowns (3). With taking over full reigns over the Tight End position Cumberland will look to improve his numbers as well as his impact in other areas of the field.
With the west coast offense being brought to Gotham City the Tight End will be utilized more often. The Jets have several questions on the offensive side of the ball with issues at the Quarterback and Wide Receiver positions. Head Coach Rex Ryan may not know who is Quarterback is at the time, but he is pretty sure who will be lining up at Tight End.
Though, the New York Jets brought in former Pro Bowl Tight End Kellen Winslow, Cumberland is expected to be the No.1 guy. History has shown that double Tight Ends are effective. If you ask any Quarterback they would probably say that their Tight End is their best friend.
Whether its Geno Smith or Mark Sanchez starting under Center, it will be a given that they would have a bff to depend on in Cumberland.
