New York Jets: Clive Walford showing as a dark horse in the tight end race

The New York Jets are in the midst of an open competition at the tight end spot. Clive  Walford is emerging as a dark horse in the race.

We know about the New York Jets open competition at the quarterback spot. A lot of print has been dedicated to talking about it and there is definitely more to come.

However, there are many other positions going through the same type of competition. One of the positions going through the competition is tight end. It’s an interesting group and one that has had a tough time having someone emerge.

The group has consisted of Neal Sterling, Eric Tomlinson, Jordan Leggett, Chris Herndon and Clive Walford. Sterling played well last week but didn’t play against the Redskins. Herndon hasn’t played yet and the impact of Tomlinson has been minimal.

One player, however, has been consistent in both games. One competitor has made an impact in both preseason games to date. That player is Clive Walford.

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Last week against the Falcons, Walford caught two passes for 27 yards.

The highlight was an 18 yard reception from Sam Darnold during his touchdown drive. Walford found himself wide open to catch the pass on the Darnold scramble.

It was more of the same for Walford against the Redskins.

This time it was two passes for 25 yards.

The big one was a 19 yard connection to start Teddy Bridgewater‘s second drive.

New York was backed up on their own 12 yard line. Bridgewater hit Walford up the right side to get the Jets out of the shadow of their own end zone.

Walford has proven to be a solid route runner and a receiver with great hands.

He also has the presence of mind to keep working to get open when his quarterback is scrambling, as we saw with Darnold last week.

The best friend for a young quarterback is a reliable tight end. He becomes a safe place for the quarterback when all else fails.

With injuries to the other players at the position, Walford has gotten the chance to potentially separate himself from the rest of the group.

So far he has taken advantage. Let’s see how much time he gets to continue making the impact against the Giants on Friday night.