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| Top five tight ends | |||||
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Rank
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Player
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School
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Height
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Weight
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Projected round
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|---|---|---|---|---|---|
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1.
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Oklahoma State
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6-5
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263
|
1
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Analysis: Pettigrew is a versatile tight end with all-around skills that translate well to the pros. Though he lacks elite speed, Pettigrew shines as a receiver due to his exceptional hands and ball skills. As a big target over the middle of the field, Pettigrew should thrive as a "move the chains" playmaker in the passing game. Additionally, he possesses the blocking skills that are a tough find at the position. Pettigrew's status has taken a tumble since his disappointing showing at the combine, but his overall ability is too good to ignore in the first round. |
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Rank
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Player
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School
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Height
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Weight
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Projected round
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2.
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South Carolina
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6-5
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246
|
2
|
|
Analysis: As an explosive athlete with an outstanding combination of size, speed and receiving skills, Cook is an ideal threat down the middle of the field. He is a rare deep threat at the position, and is sure to boost any passing game. While Cook's blocking and inconsistent effort frustrates some scouts, his talent is so enticing that some teams rate the former Gamecock as a borderline first-round pick. |
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Rank
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Player
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School
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Height
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Weight
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Projected round
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|
3.
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Southern Miss
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6-5
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240
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2-3
|
|
Analysis: The Golden Eagle standout is an athletic pass catcher with excellent movement skills and hands. Though he is not as explosive as others at the position, Nelson is a reliable weapon who excels as a playmaker in the middle. Moreover, he shows the potential to excel as a blocker at the pro level, and is clearly one of the top tight end prospects available in this year's draft. |
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Rank
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Player
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School
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Height
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Weight
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Projected round
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|
4.
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Rice
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6-3
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246
|
3
|
|
Analysis: The ultra-versatile playmaker is a pass catching phenom with the potential to be a matchup nightmare on the perimeter. Casey's athleticism overwhelms linebackers, and his size advantage allows him to dominate smaller defensive backs. The former pro baseball player has the adaptability to be a vital part of a "wildcat" offense after playing multiple positions during his collegiate career (Casey lined up at tight end, fullback, quarterback, safety and defensive end during his stint at Rice). Though Casey will need time to develop into a conventional tight end, his special skills make him an intriguing prospect as a utility player. |
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Rank
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Player
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School
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Height
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Weight
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Projected round
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|
5.
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Missouri
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6-6
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244
|
3-4
|
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Analysis: The former Tiger projects as an H-Back prospect after enjoying a stellar career at Missouri. As a natural pass catcher with outstanding ball skills and awareness, Coffman is an outstanding player well versed in the passing game. Not only does he stand out as a pass catcher, he enters the league as one of the best route runners in the game. Though he lacks experience as a conventional blocker, his receiving skills are so superb that he could shine as a "move" tight end as a pro. |
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