6’5″ – 244 lbs. – 4.75
Redshirted, then caught ten passes over fourteen games the following year, and twenty-three over thirteen games as a redshirt sophomore. Earned first-team all-conference honors this past year with a similar season, then declared for the draft. Tall tight end with good length but just adequate bulk. Was often used as a “Y” (inline) tight end at Stanford, with pro-style responsibilities; ran routes and blocked in both the run game and the passing game. Also took some snaps split out wide. Comes from a program which gave him extensive blocking opportunities in a pro-style offense, something which should smooth his learning curve at the pro level. Temperamentally-suited to mixing it up with opponents and exhibits sound fundamentals in terms of his stance, balance, and fundamentals. Works hard to sustain blocks through the whistle, although he doesn’t have a lot of functional strength to drive opposing defensive linemen off of their spots; more of a wall-off blocker with solid extension and grip strength. Also flashes the ability to lock on and turn defenders out of the hole as a run blocker. Has the length and lateral quickness to mirror in pass protection. Anchor is better than his bulk would indicate. Was also asked to come in motion and crack defenders, lead the way on screens, and set picks in the passing game; good facilitator for teammates. Does a good job of getting to the second level and engaging opponents. Athletic target who has the speed to challenge defenses down the seam and create mismatches in the passing game, although he wasn’t a particularly dynamic or high-volume receiving option at the college level; from a size standpoint, also poses difficulties for opponents. Has a little bit of shake in his routes and ran patterns to the short and intermediate levels in college. Length gives him a good catch radius, and he’s able to make catches away from his frame. Gets upfield quickly after catching the ball. However, lack of bulk allows opposing defenders to disrupt his routes and will need to do a better job of playing through chip blocks and physicality near the line of scrimmage. Tends to settle into coverage against zone, and could do a better job of holding onto throws through contact. An interesting prospect who was able to contribute in a variety of ways as a blocker at Stanford, and who has the athletic ability to offer something as a receiver as well. Will probably need to add some bulk and functional strength in order to better hold up against the bigger, more physical pro defenders he’ll encounter, but has starting traits.
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