Jermaine Gresham Quietly Putting Together A Career Year

During Cincinnati's 34-24 loss to the Cleveland Browns, Bengals tight end Jermaine Gresham generated 68 yards receiving, fourth-most during his young NFL career. Entering the season this year, Gresham generated 60 yards receiving in only four games. He's nearly equaled that this year, posting 60 yards or more in three of the past four games. The third-year tight end has also posted at least five receptions in three of the past four.

Yet one of his best plays during his young NFL career came early against the Cleveland Browns with 7:17 remaining in the first quarter. Gresham, wide right, runs a simple slant with Brian Leonard consumes linebacker D'Qwell Jackson to clear out the coverage underneath, giving Andy Dalton a free passing lane.

Hauling the accurate pass while in stride at full speed, Gresham simply deflects attempted tackles for 40 yards, completing the 55-yard touchdown. It was the first score of the afternoon, giving the Bengals an early 7-0 lead.

Prior to this play Gresham's longest reception was a 31-yard catch in Week 17 against the Baltimore Ravens last season.

Gresham is currently on pace for career numbers nearly across the board, with 67 receptions for 816 yards receiving, a 12.2 yard average, 32 first downs, 11 receptions over 20 yards and five touchdowns.