New York Jets strengthen offence, claims wide receiver Clyde Gates from Miami Dolphins – NFL News
New York Jets made their moves before the waivers' deadline ended on Saturday, September 01, 2012, as they claimed wide receiver Clyde Gates from Miami Dolphins.
Clyde is set to make a considerable impact in the Jets wide receiving corps, which has struggled particularly in absence of receiver Santonio Holmes.
Gates, 26, is looking forward to making the most out of this opportunity after a disappointing rookie season last year.
He was hoped to solve the lingering problems in the wide receiving corps for Dolphins, but failed to live up to the expectation.
He will join the Jets offence under new offensive coordinator Tony Sparano. Gates played under the watchful eyes of Sparano last year at Dolphins.
Sparano, who was Dolphins head coach last season, had played a vital role in drafting the receiver in 2011 as the 111th overall pick.
Although Gates showed good skills, he faced problems learning the Dolphins system and offensive schemes.
Gates is a former Division II Abilene Christian. He played a total of 15 games in his rookie season and managed to catch a meagre two passes while covering 19 yards.
He played in the Dolphins’ special teams and was able to return 34 kicks alongside three punts during last season.
Dolphins cut Gates on Thursday, August 30. The decision came as surprise to many as Gates had shown massive improvement in his game. Gates even said that he was hopeful of getting the starting spot in the Dolphins line-up. Gates previously said:
“I feel very confident that I will make this team. I feel like I had a pretty good camp once I overcame the (hamstring) injury.”
Gates brings versatility to Jets with his ability to play at various positions. With Sparano having a hands-on experience of dealing with Gates, it seems certain that Jets have confidence in their new arrival.
Jets have locked Gates up on a three-year contract in which he will get the league's minimum base salary.
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