Jeff Cumberland to Chargers: Latest Contract Details, Comments and Reaction

After spending his first six NFL seasons with the New York Jets, veteran Jeff Cumberland has found a new home with the San Diego Chargers.

Kimberley A. Martin of Newsday reported the news Cumberland signed with the Chargers on Monday, citing a post the 28-year-old made on Instagram. The team confirmed Cumberland had signed.

Cumberland possesses the blend of top-end speed (4.45 40-yard dash, per NFLDraftScout.com) and size (6'4", 260 lbs) at his position to be a force, but he's never realized his potential. Perhaps a career revival in San Diego is what he needs to thrive in his prime.

Michael Gehlken of the San Diego Union-Tribune hinted at the favorable circumstances Cumberland is entering with the Chargers:

San Diego legend Antonio Gates, 35, knows the nuances of Cumberland's position as well as anyone in NFL history. He was a pioneering pass-catcher but is aging and needs someone like Cumberland to take reps.

What also helps is the presence of a top-tier quarterback in Philip Rivers, who's leaned on Gates for years and can similarly do so with Cumberland. The former Jet has missed only two games in the past four seasons but has never logged more than 29 catches in a single season.

With Ladarius Green out of the picture in San Diego, the No. 2 tight end slot—and becoming the eventual successor to Gates' perch atop the depth chart—is there for the taking. It's up to Cumberland to show what he can do with the best QB he's ever played with.