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As free agency nears an end for the majority of teams, the Jaguars have reportedly agreed to terms with a familiar face — at least to Jaguars offensive coordinator Jay Gruden —, in former Bengals tight end Tyler Eifert, according to a report from NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero.
Earlier today, NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reported the Jaguars and Eifert were nearing a deal. Now it seems to be done.
The #Jaguars agreed to terms with former #Bengals TE Tyler Eifert on a two-year deal, source said.
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) March 25, 2020
A two-year deal could indicated potential for a similar contract to that of former Jaguars right end Geoff Swaim last season. Swaim signed a 2-year deal which essentially was a 1-year prove-it deal with potential for a big raise in the second season. And according to AP’s Mark Long, the contract is an “incentive-laden” deal.
Eifert began his career with the Cincinnati Bengals as the 21st overall selection in the first round of the 2013 NFL Draft. At times, Eifert has been highly productive, accounting for 185 receptions for 2,152 yards, and 24 touchdowns in his career. His most productive season came in 2015 when the former Pro Bowl tight end caught 52 passes for 615 yards, and 13 touchdowns.
The former Bengals tight end has had an up-and-down career, oftentimes dealing with injuries. Throughout his seven-year career, Eifert has has missed 53 out of 112 games in his career, starting 36 out of 59 games played.
The Jaguars desperately needed help at the tight end position last season after they saw three go down due to injuries, including Swaim, James O’Shaughnessy, and then-rookie tight end Josh Oliver.
Gruden coached Eifert during his rookie season in 2013 as the Bengals’ offensive coordinator. During that year, Eifert accounted for 39 receptions for 445 yards, and two touchdowns, starting 15 games.