He wasn’t the best tight end in football during his three-year run with the New York Jets, but Tyler Conklin was certainly a solid starter during his time with the team.
So much so that a playoff team in desperate need of a veteran presence in the passing game is looking at Conklin’s services to help them push for another postseason run.
The Los Angeles Chargers hosted Conklin on a visit this week, per a report from Mike Garafolo of NFL Network. Multiple teams have checked in on the starting tight end’s status this offseason.
Los Angeles is one of the first teams to actually bring the veteran in for a visit, though.
When Conklin signed a three-year deal worth over $20 million with the Jets, New York was looking for a pass catcher to make life easier for their former second-overall quarterback Zach Wilson.
While Wilson only lasted two seasons with Conklin on the roster, the tight end was a consummate professional throughout his time with the team.
In three seasons with the team, Conklin recorded 170 catches for 1,622 yards and seven touchdowns. He was incredibly durable—playing in all but one game during his stretch with the Jets as well.
Multiple teams have an interest in Conklin. Following the first wave of free agency, the 29-year-old is considered one of the best available players on the open market.
Why is that the case?
In a deep draft class full of top tight ends, organizations around the league may opt to fix their tight end needs during the 2025 NFL draft—not in free agency with a good but not elite player like Conklin.
The Chargers may be the exception to that rule. With no deal currently imminent, it seems the Jets are closer to losing one of their leaders in the locker room last season.
And will open up another need for the team as April’s selection process draws closer.
