Class of 2012 Review: Tight Ends

Who we lost: Andrew Szczerba

Prospects needed: 2-3

 Prospects signed: 2

Brent Wilkerson (Hyattsville, MD)
Jesse James (McKeesport, PA)

Tight end was one of the less exciting positions to watch during the 2012 recruiting season, as both James and Wilkerson committed last March.  The most suspense Penn State fans felt throughout the process is whether or not Kent Taylor (Florida) would become a Nittany Lion; however, he committed to the Gators in late October. JP Holtz (Pitt) did commit to Penn State, but was one of many recruits to leave as November’s turmoil took place. Wilkerson contemplated visiting Nebraska, but he never made it to Lincoln after visiting State College in mid-January.

Brent Wilkerson is, in my humble opinion, the most under-rated prospect Penn State signed earlier this month. He may not have the speed to be a downfield threat, but at 6’4” and 245 lbs he is an excellent blocking tight end with enough mobility to be respected as a receiver.

Reminds me of: Mickey Shuler Jr.

Jesse James, like Wilkerson, is more of a blocking tight end.  However, unlike Wilkerson, he is 6’7” with long arms and good hands that can also be used to stretch the field in key situations. Although I expect James to be most useful as an extra blocker with offensive tackle size, I am sure Bill O’Brien will be able to use James in creative ways with his unique length

Reminds me of: Buffalo Bills TE Jeff Chandler

Feel free to check out Class of 2012 Review: Quarterbacks, Running Backs, Wide Receivers and Offensive Linemen.  Also, Like us on Facebook, follow us on twitter, or contact us here.  (Photo of Brent Wilkerson courtesy of Gazette.net)