New York Jets turn tight ends into a major offensive weapon

A New Strategy for the Jets

The New York Jets are changing how they play offense by using multiple tight ends to confuse their opponents. In their 23-10 win over the Tennessee Titans, the team relied heavily on this group. This is a big shift for a franchise whose tight ends ranked near the bottom of the league in catches and yards from 2016 to 2025.

During the game, the Jets used multiple tight ends on 27 of their 63 plays. They even put four tight ends on the field at the same time for one play in the third quarter. Quarterback Geno Smith said it felt like five tight ends were out there because fullback Andrew Beck, who practices with the tight ends, also joined them. This strategy confused the Titans defense, which got caught with 13 players on the field on the very next play.

Sadiq Leads the Way

First round draft pick Kenyon Sadiq is at the center of this new approach. The rookie scored his first career touchdown on a three yard run. Sadiq ran at a top speed of 20.08 miles per hour, making him one of the fastest tight ends to score a rushing touchdown since 2016. He also joined Hall of Famer Ozzie Newsome as the only tight ends to score a rushing touchdown in their first game.

Sadiq missed most of training camp after having hernia surgery in the spring. Despite the missed time, offensive coordinator Frank Reich found ways to use him all over the field. Sadiq lined up as a traditional tight end, out wide, in the slot, and in the backfield.

The Jets now have four talented tight ends on their roster, including Mason Taylor, Jeremy Ruckert, and Jelani Woods. Coach Aaron Glenn praised the group, saying, "I think that room is a weapon for us."