On a lively Friday, Tyler Conklin, the experienced tight end, inked a new contract with the Los Angeles Chargers. His agent, Mike McCartney, made the announcement, revealing that Conklin is set on a one-year deal worth $3 million, with a potential rise to $4.5 million if certain incentives are met, as shared with ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
Conklin will now join the Chargers’ tight end lineup, which features Will Dissly. Previously, Conklin spent three seasons with the New York Jets, where he made his mark as a dependable possession receiver. During his time there, he amassed 170 receptions, putting him eighth among tight ends, and chalked up 1,622 yards with seven touchdowns.
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In 2024, Conklin saw a dip in his numbers as the Jets’ passing game spotlighted wide receivers Garrett Wilson and Davante Adams. Despite this, Conklin managed a personal best with four touchdown catches that year. Notably, he was on the receiving end of Aaron Rodgers’ 500th career touchdown pass during the Jets’ season finale.
Often seen as a checkdown option, Conklin averaged a modest 5.23 air yards per target, his lowest during his years with the Jets. Yet, he showcased incredible reliability, not dropping any of the 73 passes thrown his way in 2024.
Before joining the Jets in 2022 on a three-year, $20.3 million contract, Conklin spent his initial four NFL seasons with the Minnesota Vikings, who drafted him in the fifth round in 2018. He contributed 93 catches, 922 yards, and 4 touchdowns during his tenure there.
Interestingly, Conklin started his collegiate journey playing basketball at Division II’s Northwood University before switching to football at Central Michigan, where he found his stride.
A nod goes to ESPN’s Rich Cimini for his input on this report.
