BY NICK ST. DENIS
Jeff Cumberland, not Dustin Keller, was the New York Jets' leading tight end in 2012. And Cumberland just might have a better shot at being on New York's roster this upcoming season.
According to Connor Orr of the Star-Ledger, the Jets tendered Cumberland, a restricted free agent, Friday.
They put the lowest-level tender on the second-year tight end, which is worth $1.32 million and would allow the Jets to match the offer of another team if Cumberland was sought out. (photo: Matt Britt, Flickr)
The Jets, however, wouldn't receive a compensatory draft pick if Cumberland were to receive an offer from another squad that the Jets didn't counter.
Cumberland caught 29 passes for 359 yards and three touchdowns last year in spelling for the oft-injured Keller. Keller hauled in 28 receptions for 317 yards and two touchdowns. It is worth noting, however, that Keller was targeted just 36 times to Cumberland's 53.
Gang Green's brass reportedly met with Keller's camp at the NFL Combine last month, though he said he's only personally heard from new offensive coordinator Marty Mornhinweg.
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