Jets re-sign veteran tight end Bubba Franks

In a mild surprise -- and perhaps as a bit of insurance -- the Jets have re-signed veteran tight end Bubba Franks, according to a person with knowledge of the signing. He spoke on condition of anonymity because the Jets haven't announced the move.

Franks, a 10th-year pro, played last season with the Jets after spending his first eight seasons with the Packers. He missed seven games last season with a hip injury, finishing with just six catches for 47 yards and no touchdowns.
Franks, 31, is believed to have signed a one-year deal.

The move to retain Franks was unexpected, especially because the Jets need a blocking tight end to complement second-year pro Dustin Keller and Franks is known primarily as a receiver.

But since the Jets released veteran tight end Chris Baker (who signed with the Patriots) in February, they haven't found a good match in free agency despite bringing in several veterans for visits. The Jets brought in veteran Michael Gaines last week but didn't sign him.

Before signing Franks, the Jets had just one veteran tight end on the roster in Keller. They have signed three rookies: Andrew Davie, Robert Myers and Jack Simmons, who was impressive at last week's rookie minicamp.
For his career, Franks has 262 receptions for 2,347 yards and 32 touchdowns.

(nj.com)