TE Noah Fant, Iowa*

6’4” – 249 lbs. – 4.50
Caught nine passes as a freshman, then stepped into a regular role the following season, posting 30-494-11. Had a 39-518-7 line as a junior before declaring for the draft. Well-built, although he will probably need to add some additional bulk in order to play as a “Y” (inline) tight end. Like fellow tight end T.J. Hockenson, did take considerable snaps out of a three-point stance, with extensive blocking responsibilities, but would also line up in the slot to take advantage of his athleticism, and even occasionally on the outside to try and create mismatches against opposing cornerbacks. Has enough straight-line speed to threaten opposing defenses down the seams; smoother than he is a true burner. Able to stay on track through contact during the route. Also does a little bit of work underneath on out routes and other patterns of that nature, but is a little bit upright going into the route stem and tends to round off his patterns a little bit. Looks comfortable adjusting to poorly-thrown passes and can turn his waist to bring in passes thrown slightly behind him; soft, reliable hands to come down with catchable balls, although he did struggle to scoop up some lower passes. Exhibits impressive body control near the boundaries, although most of his work came over the middle of the field. A good runner after the catch, accelerating smoothly and wasting little time in getting upfield; glides instead of making sharp cuts. Has enough strength in his lower body to run through arm tackles. Probably the better blocker of the two Iowa tight ends in this year’s class, combining sound fundamentals and an aggressive, physical approach. Explosive out of his stance, staying low into contact and driving his legs well. Able to attack the outside shoulder and drive opposing defensive ends toward the middle of the field to seal on outside rushing attempts, or use his short-area quickness to get depth and wall-off defenders rushing from the outside. Works to sustain through the whistle. Can climb up to the second level and get in the way. Was rarely retained in pass protection. An impressive prospect who offers a solid combination of size and athleticism in the passing game and who might even be better as a blocker than as a receiver; stands a solid chance of being drafted ahead of his Mackey Award-winning teammate T.J. Hockenson, likely in the first round following his exceptional Combine workout.