The New York Jets made a sudden roster shift just one day after finalizing their 53-man lineup. Wide receiver Jason Brownlee, who initially made the cut on Tuesday, August 27, was waived by the team less than 24 hours later. The Jets announced the move on social media, confirming the addition of tight end Brenden Bates, formerly of the Chicago Bears, in a corresponding roster adjustment.
We have claimed TE Brenden Bates and released WR Jason Brownlee.
— New York Jets (@nyjets) August 28, 2024
Brownlee, an undrafted free agent out of Southern Miss, gained attention during the 2023 preseason and training camp, highlighted by his standout performance on HBO’s *Hard Knocks*. Despite a rollercoaster summer, which saw flashes of his potential mixed with inconsistency, Brownlee was able to secure a spot on the roster for the second straight year—until the Jets made the decision to claim Bates off waivers from Chicago.
With the tight end position a pressing need for Gang Green, the addition of Bates became crucial after the team entered the season with just two healthy tight ends on the active roster. Kenny Yeboah was placed on injured reserve, leaving Tyler Conklin and Jeremy Ruckert as the only available options. Bates, a rookie out of Kentucky, drew attention for his performance in the preseason, ranking as the second-highest receiving tight end with over 100 yards and earning the top rookie tight end grade, per Pro Football Focus.
While Bates primarily served as a blocking tight end during his college career at Kentucky, his athleticism and ability to contribute in the passing game made him an intriguing pickup for the Jets. Standing 6-foot-4 and weighing 246 pounds, Bates brings physicality and versatility to the position, potentially complementing Conklin and Ruckert in both the run game and as an occasional target in the passing attack.
Wouldn’t be shocked if Jason Brownlee was claimed by another team. https://t.co/GbdqJjgu6v
— Zack Rosenblatt (@ZackBlatt) August 28, 2024
As for Brownlee, his future remains uncertain. The 25-year-old receiver will now enter the waiver wire, where all 31 other teams will have the chance to claim him. If Brownlee goes unclaimed, he will have the option to return to the Jets’ practice squad or explore opportunities with other franchises.
Brownlee’s story as an undrafted free agent who fought his way into the spotlight is a testament to his resilience. Although he experienced inconsistency this preseason, his flashes of brilliance, including a viral highlight catch last summer, suggest there may still be untapped potential. Whether he stays with the Jets or finds a new home, Brownlee’s journey is far from over.
The Jets have claimed TE Brenden Bates off of waivers from the Bears
The highest graded rookie TE in the preseason – 85.8 🔥 pic.twitter.com/ZbNQxKmZDM
— PFF NY Jets (@PFF_Jets) August 28, 2024
Meanwhile, the Jets will look to solidify their tight end group with the addition of Bates, hoping the Kentucky product can contribute in both blocking and as a potential passing threat as the team gears up for the 2024 season opener.
