McBride Tops Former NFL GMs’ Tight End Rankings
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NFL Draft – Tight End is a deep position group in the 2022 NFL draft. There are a number of talented players in this skill position group that will be able to make an impact at the next level. The 33rd Team ranked the top 10 tight end prospects including their full scouting reports which were designed by the systems former front office executives implemented in their draft processes.
1) Trey McBride, Colorado State
Key Measurables: 6035, 246 lb
Notable 2021 Stats: 90 rec, 1,121 yards, 12.5 YPC, 1 TD
Best Trait: Physicality and Strength
Player Comp: Dallas Goedert
Background:
Senior who started 33 games over four years. Former three-star recruit. Two-time All-MWC First Team and one-time All MWC Second-Team. 2021 Mackey Award Winner and unanimous All-American. Extremely capable and physical blocker, probably the best in this TE class. Not overly athletic but has sufficient athleticism and shows outstanding hands and above the line ability after the catch.
Projection:
Day one starter who can be relied upon as both a blocker and receiver. Should (and likely will) be the first tight end off the board.
2) Isaiah Likely, Coastal Carolina
Key Measurables: 6044, 245 lb, 36 inch Vertical
Notable 2021 Stats: 59 rec, 912 yards, 15.5 YPC, 12 TDs
Best Trait: Ball Skills
Player Comp: David Njoku
Background:
True senior with 42 starts. 2019 All-Sun Belt third team and 2020 and 2021 All-Sun Belt first team. 2021 John Mackey Award semifinalist. Named honorable mention or second team for multiple All-American teams. Versatile player who mostly lines up inline but is also capable from the slot or wide.
Projection:
Good receiver and capable blocker who can be a three-down starting TE. Scheme adjustment will have an effect coming from a triple-option system but receiving skills will certainly translate. Will likely be the second or third TE off the board.
3) Jelani Woods, University of Virginia
Key Measurables: 6071, 253 lb, 34 1.2 arm, 4.61 speed
Notable 2021 Stats: 44 rec, 598 yards, 13.8 YPC, 8 TDs, All-ACC First Team
Best Trait: Large frame and length
Player Comp: Marcedes Lewis
Background:
Relatively new to the tight end position as he was recruited to be a dual-threat QB at Oklahoma State before changing positions.Transferred from Oklahoma State as a grad transfer. He saw his best year with the Cavaliers as soon as he transferred, becoming a reliable target for QB Brennan Armstrong. Lined up all over Virginia’s offensive formations – in the slot, outside, and with his hands in the ground. Overall impressive athlete who is a willing blocker and a reliable, big target for his QB.
Projection:
Will likely start as the No. 2 tight end on a team, but will fight to become the starter if he continues to refine his blocking skills as well as getting more consistent with his strong hands in catching the ball. He has a lot of upside considering he is relatively new to the position and with the right coaching and system, he can prove to be a solid TE in the league. Project him as solid value on Day 3.
https://www.footballoutsiders.com/extra-points/2022/mcbride-tops-former-nfl-gms-tight-end-rankings
