Jets to sign ex-Bills TE Tyler Kroft

The Jets added a backup tight end in Tyler Kroft with great blocking ability to fortify their new run-heavy offense for 2021.

The Jets added some tight end depth Friday, agreeing to sign Tyler Kroft to a one-year contract, according to his agent.

Kroft, a 6-foot-6, 252-pound tight end, joins the Jets after two seasons with the Buffalo Bills. He finished the 2020 season with 12 receptions, 119 yards and three touchdowns in 10 games. He missed a few games after landing on the COVID-19/reserve list twice. Kroft, 28, previously played four seasons with the Bengals from 2015-2018. His best season came in 2017 when he caught 42 receptions for 404 yards and seven touchdowns.

This could spell the end of Ryan Griffin’s time in New York. The Jets can save around $1.8 million if they cut Griffin this offseason. Kroft won’t compete for pass-catching roles ahead of Chris Herndon, but his blocking ability will be useful in the Jets’ wide-zone rushing offense under Mike LaFleur.