2014 NFL Draft: Tight Ends Better Than Ever?
By Joe Wedra
Dec 28, 2013; Charlotte, NC, USA; North Carolina Tar Heels tight end Eric Ebron (85) runs after a catch during the third quarter against the Cincinnati Bearcats in the Belk Bowl at Bank of America Stadium. Carolina defeated Cincinnati 39-17. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports
It’s quite possible that the tight end is the most interesting position in football. I mean let’s be honest; these guys can range from pure blocking threats to freakish athletes like Jimmy Graham. As each year passes, the league is becoming more dependent on talented weapons at this position. Will it last? Why not? Perhaps the toughest challenge on defense is defending a 6’5, 260 pound brick wall.
This year’s class of Tight Ends in the 2014 NFL Draft shows promise for at-least three more stars to break into the league and make three more teams very, very happy.
Eric Ebron, Tight End, North Carolina
Here’s the funny thing about Ebron…. I hadn’t watched much of him when I had first heard of him, but some people were claiming that he was the best they had ever seen. Of course, I was skeptical and turned on some film.
Let’s just say that I ended up having to force myself to leave the computer and stop watching film. This guy is the real deal!
When you think of Ebron, just think of SportsCenter’s “Top 10 Plays” because it’s safe to say he isn’t done delivering highlight-reel plays for opposing defenses to see. He is going to be a major mismatch in the NFL at around 6’4”, 250-pounds. Ebron has the ability to line up in the slot, and unlike conventional tight ends, has enough speed to be a consistent option.
Because of team-need, Ebron may slip outside of the top-15. After that, it’s going to be any team’s dream to grab this future Pro-Bowler.
Austin Sefarian-Jenkins, Tight End, Washington
Boy, has Washington been put on the map this year! With Bishop Sankey and Sefarian-Jenkins, the Huskies’ offense has been very fun to watch.
When I look at Sefarian-Jenkins, I see a player that a team is going to love. His blocking is way above-average and he is a very big guy who, like Ebron, is versatile. What stands out is his ability to engage defenders and push them back. A player that can catch and block is such a valuable tool in the NFL, and he can do just that.
The only thing I worry about here is overall strength. I haven’t seen enough to label him weak, but there’s definitely a bit of a concern in my mind.
Jace Amaro, Tight End, Texas Tech
Here’s a tricky prospect.
If you like what Dennis Pitta has to bring to the table, then you’ll like Amaro. He does a lot right on the field and plays a tough, energetic game.
And then you have the issues… He has reported “temper” issues and was suspended for a throwing a punch. Interviews may be crucial for his future as a pro.
Overall, these three guys could be first round prospects. There isn’t a deep class after this top-three, so a team that has a need will need to jump to take their future starting Tight End.