New York Jets: Is Trevon Wesco Really The Next Gronkowski?

The New York Jets made two trades in the 4th round before making their selection. Eventually, they selected Tight End Trevon Wesco from West Virginia with the 121st pick overall. This pick might have received little fanfare if it weren’t for the reaction of analyst Brian Baldinger:

While there is no player that compares to Gronkowski, Wesco is a mountain of a man. He stands at 6’3″ and roughly 270 pounds. Wesco is able to use this frame to be an ideal 3 position player and has played in the Y, F, and H positions. Mel Kiper praised Wesco as the best blocking Tight End in the draft.

How Wesco Matches Up

Although Chris Herndon was a pleasant surprise last year, Tight End is still considered a position of need for the Jets. The best blocking Tight End is Eric Tomlinson who is a morale booster but more known for missed assignments and drive killing penalties. Wesco will also have to beat out Jordan Leggett, whose talent and potential has yet to be realized.

Wesco did not start until this past season, but he made the most of it. He became a reliable target for Will Grier, hauling in 26 passes for 366 yards in 10 games. Those numbers are good for a gaudy 14 yards-per-catch. However, Wesco was not targeted much in the red zone and only had 1 touchdown reception. Let’s keep in mind that the Mountaineers also had David Sills and Grier had a penchant for running the ball.

Herndon, by comparison, had 40 receptions for 477 yards and 4 touchdowns during his last year as a Hurricane. Herndon also benefited by appearing in most of Miami’s games in his previous two seasons as well. That experience led to a breakout rookie campaign, catching 39 passes from Darnold for 502 yards and 4 touchdowns. Herndon is unquestionably the Jets’ starter.

How Wesco Fits In the New York Jets Scheme