The New York Jets were active on the NFL waiver wire this morning, claiming a tight end who was cut by the Chicago Bears.
Undrafted rookie tight end Brenden Bates must join the Jets’ 53-man roster, which will result in a corresponding move to create room. New York kept only two tight ends — Tyler Conklin and Jeremy Ruckert — on its initial 53, meaning Bates will slide into the TE3 slot. There was speculation that the Jets could explore the veteran tight end options on the market, but team brass likely sees potential in Bates dating back to the draft process.
Bates is as experienced as any rookie could possibly be. He spent six seasons competing for Southeastern Conference member Kentucky, appearing in 58 career games.
The 6-foot-5 Bates made at least one reception in all four of the Bears’ exhibition contests this summer. The tall target caught two passes for 47 yards in the Hall of Fame Game. He finished the preseason with six receptions, on seven targets, for 100 yards. Undoubtedly attractive to the Jets, Bates also contributed on special teams this summer. He made four tackles covering kicks.
In terms of Jets’ players who were waived, one landed with the Carolina Panthers for the second year in a row. Last season, Carolina signed Green & White cut Claudin Cherelus. This year, the Panthers picked up rookie cornerback Shemar Bartholomew.
Undrafted out of Georgia Southern, Bartholomew totaled seven tackles and two passes defensed during preseason game action but fell victim to the Jets talented depth at cornerback.
The waiver claim deadline was August 28 at 12:00 pm ET. All unclaimed players are now eligible to sign to another team’s roster or Practice Squad. Each team will have the opportunity to fill out a 16-member P-Squad in the coming days.
More New York Jets News:
• Jets' smartest moves from NFL Cutdown Day
• Jets trade undrafted preseason standout to AFC East rival
• Jets' former starting quarterback landing on Bills' Practice Squad
• Highly-touted undrafted rookie earns preseason plaudits in Jets' roster bid
• Ex-Jets' franchise quarterback dominates in Denver's exhibition win
