Jets Show an Interest in Veteran Tight End Michael Gaines

(Photo by Jim McIsaac/Getty Images)

Rumor has it that the Jets worked out veteran tight end, Michael Gaines, earlier in the week as part of their search for an additional tight end to go along with Dustin Keller.

Gaines is considered to be primarily a blocking tight end although he is versatile enough to offer a viable receiving option in short yardage situations.

Gaines' first six years as a pro have brought him to Carolina, Buffalo and Detroit.

Last season, Gaines caught 23 passes for the Lions, more than 50 percentage of which were for first downs.

The Jets have three rookie tight ends in training camp, and with Dustin Keller being primarily a pass catching tight end, the Jets are looking to add even further experience to an offensive line that will at some point be charged with protecting their high-priced quarterback of the future.

Gaines is officially still a free agent at this time and is expected to meet with the Chicago Bears early next week.

The Jets ranked 13th in the league in third down conversions last season, which is good, but is something they can definitely improve upon with a quality short yardage tight end.

There seems to be a strong interest in Gaines from several teams so the Jets might need to act fast if they want to add Gaines into their offensive mix in 2009.

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