Jake McGee, TE, Florida: 2016 NFL Draft Scouting Report
An experienced, well-rounded tight end, will Jake McGee be one of the first five drafted at his position?
After breaking his leg early on in his 2014 campaign, Florida’s Jake McGee was granted a sixth-year of eligibility and more than made the most of it.
He solidified his status as one of the best tight ends in the country, as a pass-catcher, and more importantly, as a blocker. Not only did McGee have arguably his most impressive collegiate season, he regained the draft stock that was lost when he was sidelined with that broken leg.
Has McGee shown enough to warrant him a spot amongst the top-five at his position in the draft? Let’s break it down.
Vitals
Ht: 6-5
Wt: 252 pounds
Class: Senior
Hometown: Richmond, VA
Prospect Video
Strengths
McGee sports a well-built, long, and athletic frame. He’s an overall solid blocker and pass-catcher with soft hands and speed that makes him difficult to match up with; too fast for a linebacker, too big/physical for a safety to cover type of deal. The 6-foot-5, 252-pounder is willing to go over the middle to make tough catches in traffic.
McGee has a good combination of speed and quickness that warrant him looks in the slot. Not the most ideal of comparisons, but McGee somewhat mirrors former fellow Gator Aaron Hernandez on the field.
Weaknesses
While a much-improved player, McGee still has some work to do. His route-running needs to be a little tighter and the blocking must improve if he is to see any significant playing time on the professional level. Bulking up a tad more also couldn’t hurt. Injuries are really McGee’s biggest concern, though. He nearly missed all of his 2014 season and couldn’t perform at the Senior Bowl because of a hamstring injury.
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Verdict
The standout Gator proved during his comeback campaign last season that he can be a more than a serviceable tight end in the NFL.
McGee is a versatile downfield threat that can line up outside, inside, and can block well enough in any situation. His injury history is concerning but him staying healthy during his final season in college is a huge positive.
One team could be getting a steal in McGee, who’ll likely be selected somewhere between rounds three and five.