Bucs claim tight end Jordan Leggett from Jets

TAMPA — With Cameron Brate still recovering from offseason surgery to repair a torn labrum in his hip, the Bucs claimed tight end Jordan Leggett from the New York Jets on Tuesday.

Leggett, a fifth-round pick of the Jets in 2017, missed his entire rookie season with a knee injury, then recorded 14 receptions for 114 yards and one touchdown in 15 games last season.

He was expected to compete for second-string tight end duties this season, but Jets cut Leggett on Monday, new head coach and interim GM Adam Gase's third roster move since assuming the role of fired general manager Mike Maccagnan.

With the Bucs, Leggett will compete with tight ends Antony Auclair and Tanner Hudson for second-team snaps behind starter O.J. Howard while Brate is out. The Bucs plan to utilize some multiple tight end sets, especially when they get dual receiving threats back when Brate returns.

While he had been cleared to begin running routes, Brate had been a spectator during offseason training activities so far this spring. He’s slated to be ready for the team’s mandatory minicamp next month.

Contact Eduardo A. Encina at eencina@tampabay.com. Follow @EddieInTheYard.