6’5” – 245 lbs.
Started one of eleven games played as a freshman, catching 10-183-4 (18.3). Rotated into the offense over twelve games the following year and improved his numbers to 25-349-3 (14.0). Went 34-583-2 (17.1) as a junior, and then enjoyed a monster senior campaign of 61-830-7 (13.6). Was named a co-captain this past year. Pretty well-built for the position, with solid size and bulk which is adequate; may be asked to gain a little bit more weight at the next level. Takes snaps both inline and as a flex option, less frequently split out as more of a traditional receiver; probably lined up as an H-Back the most often. A lot of his routes come on releases into the flats, but does run routes over the middle and further downfield as well. A plus athlete for his position, with smooth acceleration, solid top-end speed, and good flexibility through his routes. Has a little bit of shake to release at the line of scrimmage when coming out of his stance. Eats up cushions surprisingly quickly when working out wide, with pretty impressive footwork at the route stem to create separation; able to work in fakes and change speeds to keep defenders off-guard. Does a good job of maintaining inside positioning when working over the middle of the field. Very good natural receiving skills. Has pretty good hands and is able to adjust to throws away from his body; can bring in passes thrown high, low, or behind him, plucking away from his frame. Flashes some ability to improvise and find openings when the play breaks down. Not the most powerful but is able to bounce off of the occasional defensive back and pick up additional yardage. Rarely asked to stay in and work in pass protection, but form looks pretty good, bending at the knees, keeping his back straight, and demonstrating solid lateral quickness to mirror, although his anchor isn’t the strongest. Works hard in the run game; not purely a finesse/receiving tight end. Has good technique and short-area quickness to get in position and wall off defenders. Hand placement, arm extension, grip strength, and work rate are all solid; won’t overwhelm anyone with his power, but works hard to stick with opponents through the whistle. Can block out of the backfield, from motion, from a flex look, or inline; responsibilities were pretty varied. A productive, polished receiver with solid size and athleticism and who demonstrates good effort and technique as a blocker, he may be asked to gain some additional bulk and strength but shows a lot of the things teams look for in a modern tight end and should come off the board by the end of the second round.
DRAFTEXAMINER 