Jets' Zack Kuntz: Breakout Candidate in 2024?
After completing a blockbuster trade for the services of future Hall of Fame quarterback Aaron Rodgers in April 2023, the New York Jets were expected by many to contend for the top spot in the AFC.
Unfortunately, Rodgers injured his left ankle on just his fourth offensive snap during the Jets’ Week 1 matchup with the Buffalo Bills. The four-time All Pro would not see the field again in 2023, while the Jets struggled to a 7-10 finish — while ranking No. 31 in overall offense.
With Rodgers expected to be fully healthy to start the 2024 campaign, New York will be looking for as much offensive help as possible. Accordingly, Jets’ second-year tight end Zack Kuntz may be ready for a breakout season.
Kuntz was selected by New York in the seventh round (No. 220) overall in the 2023 NFL Draft. Despite a rather unremarkable performance during training camp, the Old Dominion product was retained via the Jets practice squad. He remained a fixture on the scout team until being promoted to the active roster on Dec. 27. Still, Kuntz did not register any statistics during the season.
While the 24-year-old’s rookie resume will do little to make his case to challenge veteran Tyler Conklin for the top spot on the depth chart, Kuntz possesses all the necessary traits to become a key contributor in the Jets passing game. Known for his blend of size and athleticism, the 6-8, 255-pound tight end is quite adept at using his size to his advantage at the catch point. In spite of his size, Kuntz is exceedingly fast off line of scrimmage. Upon finding his seam, the Pennsylvania native has been known to can fly past defenders when running routes such as seams, crossers and corners.
Having demonstrated success with receivers who are capable of controlling their footwork to change direction (such as Allen Lazard and Randall Cobb), Rodgers may find Kuntz be a sizable separator when given space to operate. However, he will need to improve his ability to play through contact. Throughout last season’s training camp, Kuntz struggled to use his size and strength to gain an advantage over his defenders when away from ball. For all the success he had at the point of attack, his lack of aggressiveness while fighting for position kept him on the scout team for the majority of the season.
Ultimately, Kuntz will face an uphill battle to make the Jets 53-mean roster in 2024. Still, Rodgers return, along with the production of which he is capable, may give him the chance to earn a notable role in a rejuvenated Jets offense this season.
