It may be easy to overlook a tight end that hasn't score a touchdown in 29 straight games but don't underestimate what Tyler Conklin means to the New York Jets.
Even though he has rarely reached the end zone, Conklin has value as a pass-catcher, a blocker and a leader.
The reliable Conklin, who boasts a career catch percentage a shade under 70 percent, has secured 7 of 10 receiving targets thus far this season. He's been on the field for a staggering 92 percent of New York's offensive snaps through three games.
"He's everything you want out of a Jet," said head coach Robert Saleh as the team prepares for its Week 4 home game against the Denver Broncos.
In the Jets' Week 3 win over the New England Patriots, the veteran tight end led all receivers with a game-high 93 yards on five receptions.
"That was good to see him get rewarded on Thursday night to get that production. Because we think he's another guy that we feel like in a one-on-one situation can win a lot," said Saleh.
In the last season of a three-year, $20.25 million contract, Conklin has taken an unselfish team-oriented approach to his TE1 role.
"Another one of those guys, obviously he wants the ball, but he's never going to beg for the ball. He's going to do his job. He's going to do it 100 percent. He goes above and beyond in terms of preparation, not only taking care of his body, but prepping and keeping his mind in the playbook and then obviously out on the practice field," said Saleh.
While quarterback Aaron Rodgers is officially the Jets' captain on offense, Conklin carries plenty of clout in the locker room.
"I know he doesn't wear the C, but he is part of our leadership council and he's an elite human," said Saleh.
More New York Jets News:
• Still more respect for New York Jets to earn in NFL Power Rankings
• Two starters listed as non-participants on Jets' short Week 4 injury report
• Jets' Joe Tippmann has luxury unafforded to many NFL centers
• Jets' rookie RB forces Robert Saleh's hand and Aaron Rodgers agrees
• Saleh details league-wide offensive downturn as Jets buck NFL trend
