2021 NFL Draft prospects to watch: Big 12 Conference
By Kyle Edmond
![STILLWATER, OK - NOVEMBER 16: Running back Chuba Hubbard #30 of the Oklahoma State Cowboys picks up a first down against the Kansas Jayhawks in the first quarter on November 16, 2019 at Boone Pickens Stadium in Stillwater, Oklahoma. OSU won 31-13. (Photo by Brian Bahr/Getty Images) STILLWATER, OK - NOVEMBER 16: Running back Chuba Hubbard #30 of the Oklahoma State Cowboys picks up a first down against the Kansas Jayhawks in the first quarter on November 16, 2019 at Boone Pickens Stadium in Stillwater, Oklahoma. OSU won 31-13. (Photo by Brian Bahr/Getty Images)](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/shape/cover/sport/9f5a3ebb7d72f7462386914e8c5622e4dd51ed656b17aa5c0ee27f848470338f.jpg)
Iowa State – Charlie Kolar, Tight End, Redshirt Junior
Although Brock Purdy has garnered the most attention on the Cyclones’ roster, Charlie Kolar could be the one to draw the most consideration come draft time. There will be a lot of top quarterback candidates in the 2021 NFL Draft, but tight ends could be much more scarce, which will bode well for Kolar.
During the 2019 season Kolar led the team in touchdown receptions with seven, meaning he already has chemistry with Purdy which will only get better this coming season. Tight ends are gaining momentum again in the NFL, especially the ones that can be reliable red zone targets. If Kolar continues to haul in the touchdowns more teams will take notice.
Kolar also was third on the team this past season for receptions with 51, but the two above him both moved on from Iowa State, meaning Kolar should see an increase in targets this coming season. Kolar was also third on the team in yardage with just Tarique Milton having more from those returning for the 2020 season.
Having the chemistry with Purdy and now looking to get more targets, Kolar should become an even better prospect this coming season. If he can just sustain his 2019 numbers, he could very easily forego his senior season and be a top tight end prospect in the 2021 NFL Draft.