As this was an expected suspension, tight end Chris Herndon of the New York Jets will miss the first four games of the 2019 season due to a violation of the league’s substance abuse policy.
The NFL suspended Jets TE Chris Herndon for the first four games of the season for violating the league’s substance abuse policy.
— Ralph Vacchiano (@RalphVacchiano) July 12, 2019
Herndon, who displayed great talent and ability last season, will miss essential time to build a rapport with franchise quarterback Sam Darnold.
The second-year tight end put up 502 receiving yards and four scores, showing his abilities in the passing game and providing a security blanket for Darnold. He was on pace to take his game to the next level before the suspension, however, I imagine he will pick right back up where he left off last season.
Luckily, the Jets are now stocked with offensive talent, signing both Le’Veon Bell and Jamison Crowder this offseason period to bolster the team. They can manage without Herndon for the first four games, but his loss will only hurt his development.
The Jets don’t have an easy schedule to start the year, though, facing off against the Bills, Browns, Patriots, and Eagles in that order. They will need all the firepower they can get to compete against those teams.
“Last season, the Jets’ offense ranked #23 in points scored with 20.8 per game, according to NFL.com. Bell’s influence will surely provide more points and the experience of Darnold and Herndon will aid in its elevation as well.”