Quarterback Aaron Rodgers seems to be getting along well with a former New York Jets player. Tyler Conklin, an experienced tight end, impressed coaches this week at practice, according to Connor Hughes of SNY.

“For obvious reasons, everyone speaks about Garrett Wilson, but Conklin was a player who really clicked with Aaron Rodgers last year. It was unfortunate that Rodgers’ injury prevented us from witnessing that on the field.

Conklin never left, and now that Rodgers is back, their chemistry seems to have continued where they left off. Hughes said Jeane Coakley, “I think Conklin could be in for a very big season here and who knows maybe earn another contract here with the Jets.” The 28-year-old Conklin is about to reach the last year of his $20.25 million deal.

After two years of his three-year contract, the Jets have more than earned their money. The former Central Michigan standout has three receiving touchdowns and 1,173 receiving yards from 119 receptions.

Although those are respectable figures, they seem even more remarkable in light of the less than ideal quarterback scenario he has been forced to deal with.

He will start a contract year in 2024 with Rodgers as his starting quarterback. Conklin ought to be able to put up career stats if he can stay on the field. That would be beneficial to him because in 2025 he will be eligible for unrestricted free agency.

If all goes according to plan and everyone remains healthy, Conklin will have another opportunity to profit handsomely from a major contract.

Speaking of which, Conklin’s availability is arguably the most underappreciated statistic. From 2022 to 2023, Conklin made an appearance in 34 of the 34 games that were possible.

Conklin was recently recognized by NFL Media Group’s Gennaro Filice as the Jets’ most “underappreciated” player.

“For his first two seasons with the Jets, Garrett Wilson has topped the team in receiving yards. It is not unexpected. However, put your hand up if you thought Conklin finished second in this category in his first two seasons with the team, according to Filice.

“Conklin has given Joe Douglas a strong return on investment, particularly in light of the eclectic group of quarterbacks who have thrown him the ball. In 2024, Conklin will be in a contract year with Aaron Rodgers at quarterback.

And in case the man needed further inspiration, recall that months ago we were debating tight end Brock Bowers as the Jets’ obvious first-round selection? Douglas chose OT Olu Fashanu instead. Conklin now has an obligation to support his general manager’s position.

It is extremely fitting that Conklin claims that accolade. Conklin signed for less money even in the summer than the other tight end the Jets signed, CJ Uzomah, who paid $24 million for a three-year contract.

Since the beginning, he has been disregarded, and he didn’t have a single touchdown reception the previous season. But he will have a fantastic chance to reintroduce himself to the NFL in 2024.