The tight end position has been a tough area for scouts to evaluate in recent years. With the rise in tight end value but also in tight end versatility, it’s difficult to see if flashes in college or athletic ability can translate into a worthwhile mid-to-high draft pick.
In the 2015 class, there isn’t a clear-cut first-round option, and the junior class already has four players who’ve entered the fold. Maxx Williams of Minnesota and Tyler Kroft of Rutgers both have starter-level upside.
Maxx Williams, Minnesota – 2nd
Our top-ranked tight end at this point in the process, Maxx Williams has the best chance to enter the 2015 NFL Draft’s first round. With ideal size, frame and bulk for the position, Williams fits what NFL teams desire in a run blocker, but can take advantage as a pass catcher in the short and vertical opportunities they’ll need him.
A plus athlete in space, Williams is smooth as a second-level route runner, and has clear decisiveness as a pass-catcher. He’s able to control in the seam and consistently gain separation to force added safety and linebacker attention. As a pass-catcher, he has awesome hand-eye coordination to finish on the perimeter and in traffic downfield. He finishes with strong hands and can be a persistent 5-7-catch a game type tight end.
As a blocker, he’s adequate in engaging in space, but plays with great leverage and hand strength inline and in the inside run blocking. He shows willingness to embrace contract and plus-finishing ability at the second level.
Tyler Kroft, Rutgers – 2nd-3rd
Despite the Rutgers offense never producing at a high level in the passing game the past two years, Tyler Kroft (and Leonte Carroo) should intrigue NFL teams in need of versatile pass catchers. Kroft has shown a complete skill set at the position, and should quickly become one of the best tight end prospects in the 2015 class. While not a game-changing tight end, he’s shown the ability to thrive in multiple areas at the position.
Kroft shows plus hip quickness initially and vs. linebackers to get free from bump coverage and exploit gaps in zone coverages. He’s shown a focus on route development, especially when working to position his body as well as working off coverage to gain cushion for quarterback windows He slides well between zones with decisive foot speed and the ability to control his speed to gauge gaps in a defense. He is a bit slow in finishing his routes, and does leave opportunities on the field due to misreads or poorly timed route breaks.
As a blocker, he’s shown clear focus in his should positioning and willingness to engage blocks. He’s adequate in pass protection, with a wide base and a plus initial bump, and can be counted on there quickly in his NFL career as an extra blocker. He’s an effective double team blocker, holds his ground well, and finishes blocks through the play better than most tight ends.
Jean Sifrin, Massachusetts – 4th-5th
Hailing from low-level MAC program, it’s generally not a smart idea for a player like Sifrin to declare early for the NFL draft. And while his draft grade doesn’t condone the decision effectively, he has the upside to fit what NFL teams want in their tight ends.
A tall, high-cut tight end who lines up inline and in the slot, Sifrin is a pass-catcher first who was asked to run multiple interior routes as well as work on the perimeter in out-routes and wheel routes. A bit of a slow mover, Sirfin has great build-up speed and can be effective as an after catch runner. He’s also a bit elusive for a 6’6 tight end, and can utilize subtle quickness initially and powerful break tackle ability when he gets moving.
His foot speed is an issue both initially and when working to get separation, but he does adjust his speed naturally well to gain extra positioning in the middle of the field. His clear NFL-readiness is his hand strength and catch-point finishing ability is a major plus, which should have NFL teams excited to see his initial NFL impact. He’ll need to show better blocking effort and strength, as he’ll need to contribute there in the NFL.
Jesse James, Penn State – 6th Round
A surprise declaree for a Penn State program still going through turnover, with three Nittany Lions already entered in the 2015 NFL Draft despite none expected to be taken in the first two rounds. James, a 6’6+ tight end, has the length and short-area athleticism to have value at the NFL level. A still lean tight end, James extends away from his frame to finish catches well, especially when asked to work on the perimeter. He’s able to adjust quickly to throws and navigate as a route runner in the mid-field well enough.
However, he’s a slow starter off the line, and requires ample build-up speed to be a seam threat. Right now, he’s limited to short-area inside routes, quick hitches, or quick outs. When asked to attack the seam, he doesn’t have great catch-point body control, but can still finish catches when asked to attack the mid-field past ten yards. He lacks lateral quickness and burst to be effective after catch, and he’s slow to transition in the open field. He’s an adequate blocker and clearly as the length, but can’t be relied upon at this point as an extra edge pass-blocker you can truly trust.
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