Jacksonville Jaguars 2021 training camp preview: Tight ends

The Jacksonville Jaguars properly addressed most of their roster needs this offseason. Although they didn’t neglect their tight end room, it feels like they could have done a better job upgrading the unit. Earlier this year, the Jags opted not to exercise the team option on Tyler Eifert. At the time, it looked like the move was going to pave the way for a splash signing in free agency.

This wasn’t a particularly talented class, but there were a handful of appealing options available in the open market. Jonnu Smith and Hunter Henry were the top tight ends in free agency with veteran Jared Cook offering another alternative. Instead, the Jaguars gave Chris Manhertz a two-year contract worth $7.25 million, which isn’t a bad thing in itself. After all, the Canisius product will have a key role in short-yardage and red-zone situations. However, he won’t probably contribute much in the passing game, as he has hauled in just 12 receptions in his six-year career.

Ok, so Jacksonville didn’t add a tight end in free agency but what about the draft? Kyle Pitts was a top 5 prospect and out of reach for the Jags but they could have targeted Pat Friermuth late in the first round or early in the second. They also had the chance to take Tommy Tremble or Kylen Granson in the third or fourth round, so what did they do? They waited until Round 5 to select Luke Farrell, who could develop into a solid NFL starter down the road but is currently a developmental prospect.

So, how does the Jaguars’ tight end room look ahead of training camp? Let’s take a look.