The New York Jets have made a decisive move to strengthen their offense ahead of the 2025 NFL season, targeting one of the most critical and evolving positions in football—the tight end. In what appears to be a two-fold strategy, the Jets have both signed a promising free agent and are eyeing a major addition in the upcoming NFL Draft. These calculated decisions signal the franchise’s serious intent to equip quarterback Aaron Rodgers with dynamic, reliable weapons.
On March 17, 2025, the Jets signed Stone Smartt, a former Los Angeles Charger known for his versatility and contributions on special teams. Though Smartt entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent, he has carved out a niche as a dependable and athletic tight end. Standing at 6’4″ and weighing over 230 pounds, Smartt brings size, athleticism, and an eagerness to grind—traits that align with head coach Robert Saleh’s culture of toughness and grit. His experience playing multiple roles, including quarterback during his college days, makes him a utility player with the potential to contribute in creative ways on offense.
But Smartt isn’t the only move the Jets are making at tight end.
According to multiple reports and 2025 NFL mock drafts, the Jets are also heavily projected to draft Tyler Warren, a standout from Penn State, in the first round. At 6’6″ and 257 pounds, Warren is a physical mismatch for nearly every defender on the field. His ability to catch in traffic, stretch the field, and block in both the run and pass game has made him one of the most complete tight ends in this draft class. In 2024, he recorded 104 receptions for 1,233 yards and 8 touchdowns, showcasing elite receiving skills and the ability to dominate across multiple alignments—in-line, out wide, and in the slot.
Warren has drawn comparisons to San Francisco 49ers star George Kittle and former Georgia tight end Brock Bowers, now in the NFL himself. For the Jets, pairing Warren’s raw talent with Smartt’s versatility could create a tight end room that complements every offensive scheme—from power running sets to high-tempo spread formations.
These additions also serve a bigger purpose: maximizing Aaron Rodgers’ remaining years under center. Rodgers, who returned from injury in 2024 and has made clear his goal of leading the Jets to a Super Bowl, thrives with reliable tight end play—something he hasn’t consistently had in New York. Giving him a safety valve like Warren and a creative chess piece like Smartt could reinvigorate the Jets’ offensive identity.
With these moves, the Jets are clearly signaling they’re not just trying to compete—they’re aiming to contend. And if Warren lives up to the hype and Smartt finds his rhythm, New York could possess one of the league’s most underrated tight end duos heading into the 2025 season.
