The Post’s Ryan Dunleavy gives his top 10 tight ends in this year’s NFL draft, based on evaluations and conversations with people around the league:
1. Dalton Kincaid, Utah, 6-foot-4, 246 pounds
Big slot receiver who is an adequate blocker. Drawing comparisons to three-time Pro Bowler Zach Ertz. Five-year college player could quickly blossom into a No. 1 target because his route-running creates separation and his sticky hands win 50/50 balls.
2. Michael Mayer, Notre Dame, 6-4, 249 pounds
More complete prospect than Kincaid, but not a four-wide game-changer. Old-school ability to put his hand in the dirt as a sixth run-blocking pseudo-offensive lineman, but that isn’t to discount his 18 career touchdowns while boxing out defenders.
3. Luke Musgrave, Oregon State, 6-6, 253 pounds
Natural pass-catcher when flexed off the line of scrimmage. Most linebackers won’t keep up with his vertical speed, assuming it’s the same after two knee injuries in three years. Most defensive backs will get out-jumped or out-wrestled for possession.
4. Darnell Washington, Georgia, 6-7, 264 pounds
Unique set of skills: He is a plus run-blocker and a receiving target who can’t be overthrown with yards-after-catch potential. Forget press coverage, because he will power through it. Quarterbacks must trust that he will make tight-window catches.
5. Sam LaPorta, Iowa, 6-3, 245 pounds
As is often the case, look deeper than the numbers (five career touchdowns) when it comes to Iowa tight ends. Underutilized pass-catcher who is comfortable selling fakes to set up quick screens or working the middle of the field.
6. Tucker Kraft, South Dakota State, 6-5, 254 pounds
Raw ability after growing up playing nine-man football in South Dakota. Untapped athleticism, as he primarily was used as an in-line blocker. Broke 25 tackles on 92 catches over the past two seasons, per Pro Football Focus. Wide catch radius.
7. Luke Schoonmaker, Michigan, 6-5, 251 pounds
Seized opportunity to move up an injury-plagued depth chart. Known for opening running lanes, but flashed ability as a receiver with a knack for finding holes in zones. Needs physicality to translate more to fighting off man coverage.
8. Davis Allen, Clemson, 6-6, 245 pounds
Scouts rave about his ball skills and ability to turn 50/50 balls into 80/20 with body positioning. Most of his contested catches are mid-range gains, though, because a 4.84-second 40-yard dash isn’t going to result in big plays.
Read Related Also: Former Royal Chef Says Little ‘Brat’ Prince Harry Taught Him How to Cook American-Style Food
9. Josh Whyle, Cincinnati, 6-6, 248 pounds
Grinder who will sacrifice his body to lead block on the move. Consistent numbers include between 26 and 32 catches for between 326 and 353 yards over three straight seasons. Knocked off his routes by physical coverage, suggesting a need to get stronger.
10. Cameron Latu, Alabama, 6-4, 242 pounds
Averaged 14.1 yards per grab over past two seasons after 25 reception-less games early in his career, but didn’t score a touchdown in an underwhelming final season. Speed results in separation, but he sometimes turns his head before securing the catch.
Late Riser
Travis Vokolek, Nebraska, 6-6, 259 pounds
Father and uncle are college coaches. Spent two years at Rutgers and four at Nebraska. Big goal-line target in bunch formations with multiple tight ends, who moves along with his scrambling quarterback. Stays with his blocks.
Falling Fast
Brenton Strange, Penn State, 6-3, 253 pounds
Pedestrian times and measurements at the combine after averaging just 2.3 catches across 31 career starts. Plays physically, but sacrifices technique in his hurry to show competitiveness. More of an H-back than a true backup tight end.
Small-School Wonder
Zack Kuntz, Old Dominion, 6-7, 255 pounds
Started 15 career games last year before his season was cut short by injury. Athletic tools highlighted by wingspan and high school hurdles and high jump championships. Lanky frame needs development.
