Kellen Winslow might have put up a touchdown against the Atlanta Falcons on Monday night, but other than that the veteran tight end was relatively quiet. Through the season, New York Jets backup tight end Jeff Cumberland has emerged as a real talent and his increased reps on the field are a result of solid production. After another strong game against Atlanta, Cumberland becomes a player to watch and Winslow is unhappy about it.
Winslow's stat line for Monday's game was unimpressive. He has one catch for one yard, resulting in one touchdown. Geno Smith looked his way only once and while Winslow put points on the board because of it, he was reportedly unhappy over the lack of playing time. Smith told media after the game that Winslow was upset with him over the lack of targets. When asked to responded, the veteran simply said (via ESPN.com), "I don't think that would be a good choice."
Smart choice, Winslow. The tight end should really be grateful. The veteran sat out all of last season after chronic knee issues took their toll again. The tight end was lucky to get the offer from the Jets after interest was low. Winslow was listed as questionable leading into the game and Cumberland confirmed the game plan did not revolve around the veteran this week.
"Me and Marty had a one-on-one talk last week, and he said some things he wanted to do with me and get me more involved in the offense," Cumberland said. "I gave a little outside move [on the touchdown], but it was pretty much a vertical route and I just used my speed and maneuvered around, and Geno found me."
The fourth-year star put up 79 yard off three targets and one touchdown. On the year, Cumberland has 467 yards off 36 passes. The tight end is stocked with talent and is slowly becoming one of Smith's favorite targets.
While Atlanta's defense is not exactly a great benchmark for what a receiver is capable of doing, Cumberland continues to show more and more potential with each week. At this point he should be a starter in every fantasy league. The Jets go up against the winless Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 6 and Cumberland could once again be poised for a big game.
