The New York Jets drafted Chris Herndon in the fourth round (107th overall) of this year’s NFL Draft. Here we take a look at his rookie profile.
The New York Jets finally rediscovered the tight end in 2017. It was about time. After two seasons in which their tight ends combined for a total of 26 receptions, Austin Seferian-Jenkins grabbed 50 catches and was a true red zone threat last season. ASJ and general manager Mike Maccagnan could not agree on contract terms, so Seferain-Jenkins is now a Jacksonville Jaguar.
Acknowledging the need for a viable replacement, Maccagnan selected Miami’s Chris Herndon in the fourth round (107th overall) of this year’s draft with the hopes that he can develop into a solid NFL tight end.
The 6-4, 253-pounder started 11 games for the Hurricanes in 2017 and finished with 40 receptions for 477 yards and four touchdowns. He tore his MCL in the regular season finale, but was able to participate in Jets minicamp in early May. Herndon was seen catching some tosses from fellow rookie Sam Darnold.
Let’s take a look at some of his highlights:
PROS: The Norcross, GA native was a former wide receiver in high school and some of those skills are noticeable on video. While Herndon does not have breakaway speed, he possess a quick release into his routes via his burst at the snap. His overall speed for a tight end is above-average. What really jumps out is his YAC (yards after catch) ability. Herndon is not afraid to take tacklers head on. He’s an excellent athlete and is dangerous on bubble screens. He has a strong, muscular frame and should develop into a viable red zone target.
CONS: Even though he has some nice upside, Herndon is still a little raw at this point. He seems to be making progress following his knee surgery but how well will that knee hold up once preseason games commence? The former Miami standout still needs work on his blocking skills, especially finishing his blocks. His hands are inconsistent at times. He needs to improve his route running. That all should improve with time but all fourth round picks are gambles to some degree.
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SUMMARY: This was a fine value pick by Maccagnan. Gang Green needed a young tight end with a high ceiling in the worst way. The Jets GM is crossing his fingers that Herndon fits the bill. As long as he continues to recover well from his knee injury, Herndon should develop into a viable NFL starter with proper coaching and game experience. His YAC ability is impressive and he should turn into a formidable red zone target and safety value receiver.
Of course, his recent arrest for DWI could throw a wrinkle into many of these plans.
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