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Jake Butt, TE, Michigan: Scouting Report

By Sam Beckenstein

Nov 14, 2015; Bloomington, IN, USA; Michigan Wolverines tight end Jake Butt (88) after scoring a touchdown in the first overtime is congratulated by wide receiver Grant Perry (9) during a game against the Indiana Hoosiers at Memorial Stadium. Michigan defeats Indiana in double overtime 48-41. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 14, 2015; Bloomington, IN, USA; Michigan Wolverines tight end Jake Butt (88) after scoring a touchdown in the first overtime is congratulated by wide receiver Grant Perry (9) during a game against the Indiana Hoosiers at Memorial Stadium. Michigan defeats Indiana in double overtime 48-41. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports /
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Jake Butt decided to come back to Michigan for his senior season after earning first team All Big Ten honors and second team All American honors last year. Butt has been a staple of the Wolverines offense, and a key player in the red zone.

Last year he played in all 13 games and had 51 receptions for 654 yards and three touchdowns. He had an average of 12.8 yards per catch, and was a reliable pair of hands for Jake Rudock. Expect to see a lot of him in Jim Harbaugh’s pro style attack this upcoming season.

In his career he has racked up 92 receptions for 1,100 yards and seven touchdowns. He was considered  a top tight end in the country last season, and a top prospect, but chose to return to Ann Arbor. He has since been named to the Mackey Award watch list for best collegiate tight end.

Measurables:

Height  6’6″

Weight 248 lbs.

Games Watched:

2015: Utah, Indiana, Northwestern

Strengths:

He has the size that NFL teams look for in a tight end. Butt has the receiving skills that NFL teams are currently coveting, especially in the red zone where he makes his presence felt the most. Butt’s athleticism is what makes him one of the most intriguing prospects at the tight end position.

He’s got the tools that NFL teams are now coveting.  Another great ability he has is good route running, and the skills to shake defenders after the catch and extend plays.

Weaknesses:

Blocking is not his strongest point. He is okay in run blocking, and was often pushed around in pass blocking in tape I saw. It seems like it lacks tenacity, and doesn’t drive defenders off the ball. He struggled against speed rushes. Noticeably, Butt did drop a few balls on tape, and has a lack of power.

Overall:

Jake Butt is a top tight end prospect despite his weaker blocking skills. His athleticism and pass catching skills are highly sought after in today’s NFL. His lack of power in blocking is able to be overlooked given his vast talent elsewhere. His unique skill set will give him early consideration.

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