NFL Scouting Combine: How to Read the Tight End Numbers

The tight ends worked out today at the 2015 NFL Scouting Combine, giving us an official list of numbers to attach to names on our scouting reports.

Below, you’ll find a few tips on how to read the official numbers of some key drills, including the bench press and 40-yard dash.

40-yard dash

Here’s everyone’s favorite drill — for good reason. The 40-yard dash may not be important for some positions (looking at you, interior linemen), but it’s a good way to read each tight end.

Now, we didn’t see anyone match Vernon Davis’ 4.37 that he put up nearly a decade ago. However, you’re going to want these prospects to run under 4.80 to be considered a “plus time”.

Last season, all top-tier prospects were at 4.76 or above.

There are guys who can get away with being under 4.80, but they must be exceptional blockers. If they can block (Crockett Gillmore last year at 4.89 is a great example) they can slip a bit further.

Very rarely do we see playmaking tight ends that are under the 4.8 mark succeed in the NFL when we look at recent history. In today’s league, being in the 4.7’s should be a slower prospects target.

2014: Eric Ebron (4.60), Jace Amaro (4.74), Austin Seferian-Jenkins (4.75)

2013: Tyler Eifert (4.68), Zach Ertz (4.76), Gavin Escobar (4.84)

Bench press

Guys like to brag about this one, but it’s very minor in the grand scheme of things. Mike Mayock said it best in the NFL Network’s broadcast on Thursday — “sometimes, [bench press numbers] aren’t a true measure of strength.”

It’s sure fun to break down these numbers, but don’t read too much into them. Here’s what we’ve seen in previous years:

• In 2011, Charlie Gantt had 27 reps, while Broncos standout Julius Thomas had just 16.
• In 2009, Travis Beckum lead the way with 28 reps. He’s not with any NFL team currently.
• In 2014, Joe Don Duncan had 35 reps, while Seferian-Jenkins put up just 20.

Vertical jump

Here’s one to watch. Historically, the great tight ends have better than average vertical numbers. For their position, it’s crucial.

You’ll want to see these guys at at-least 32 inches. Anything less than that is considered a big mark on the scouting report, especially in today’s NFL. Very few guys succeed without natural ability to get up in the air.

2014: Colt Lyerla (39.00), Crockett Gillmore (33.50), Jace Amaro (33.00)

2013: Tyler Eifert (35.50),

2011: Jordan Cameron (37.50)

Notable 2015 class numbers

Here is a FULL list of official numbers.