There have certainly been some trend-breakers recently — namely the Lions’ Sam LaPorta and the Raiders’ Brock Bowers — but the tight end position normally requires a couple seasons to settle in before truly flourishing.
Strange appears to be rising in the ranks at exactly the right time, rounding into form yet still evolving heading into Year 3.
“I think I have room to grow for sure,” he said. “And I have room everywhere. That’s not just as a receiver. That’s being a blocker, being a leader on this team, I have so much more room to grow. I’m excited for that. It’s gonna be challenging, but I’m up for the challenge. I know I’m capable.”
Beyond his potential contributions through the air, Strange speaks a big game about opening up lanes for Jacksonville’s rushing operation. His services and continued improvement as a blocker will be sorely needed in that regard after the Jags finished 26th in rushing yards in 2024, but his mentality is certainly in the right place.
“I want to be a complete tight end, and at the end of the day it’s just like imposing your will,” Strange said on the importance of being able to block well. “When you’re blocking, like go out there and impose your will over somebody and you do it over and over again, they’re going to break down eventually. It’s one of my favorite parts, just being a complete tight end and being asked to do everything.”
If the young TE continues on his upward trajectory provided more responsibility, the Jaguars could be looking at the makings of a terrific pass-catching trio of Strange, Thomas and No. 2 overall pick Travis Hunter to help quarterback Trevor Lawrence finally take another step.
The opportunity, all out in front of him, has been a long time coming for Strange. Now, it’s time to make the most of it.
“It was frustrating at times, but you just have to tell yourself, ‘It’s all part of the process,'” Strange said of his usage in the past. “Everything’s a process. Everything that you do, you have to grow through. You have to learn. … I feel like everything I’ve done in my life has prepared me for this moment right here. I’m excited for it. I’m ready to go. It’s a blessing.”