The New York Jets announced Wednesday they have signed free agent wide receiver/punt returner Tim Dwight. The announcement was made by Jets’ General Manager Mike Tannenbaum.“Tim provides us with a proven punt returner and a different type of receiver,” Tannenbaum said. “His style blends speed and a change of pace that adds a different dimension to our receiving group. He is a high-character player who will be a good fit in our system.”
“I got to know Tim last season after competing against him several times,” added Coach Eric Mangini. “I have always admired the way he approaches the game, in terms of his preparation, work ethic, toughness and competitiveness.”
In 2005, Dwight played in 16 games, making one start as a member of the New England Patriots. He finished the season with 19 receptions for 332 yards and three touchdowns to go with 32 punt returns for 273 yards.
In his career, Dwight has scored 25 touchdowns – 17 receiving, three rushing and five on returns. In 101 games, he has recorded 172 receptions for 2,754 yards along with 49 rushes for 340 yards. He has returned 162 punts for 1,573 yards in addition to returning 202 kickoffs for 4,723 yards.
“I would like to thank Coach Mangini and Mike Tannenbaum for making me part of the Jets organization,” Dwight said. “I am eager to join my new teammates in the off-season workout program and prepare for the upcoming season.”
Dwight is a native of Iowa City, Iowa and was a running back at Iowa City High School where as a senior, he rushed for a state-record 43 touchdowns.