Cole’s Corner: 2021 Tight End Prospect Rankings

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Tight end often feels like it is such a thin position group in each draft class. This has become increasingly prevalent as more teams look to spread the field with four or five wide receivers at one time. Some tight ends still get utilized because they are great at one specific job or are just versatile enough to do multiple jobs.

For Darren Waller, he is a big pass catching receiver. Nick Boyle is the complete opposite end of the spectrum and acts as an extra lineman with his blocking ability. If a tight end’s ability fits your scheme, then he could become a weapon on offense.

What are the best traits of this tight end class? It’s time to find out.

Here are my top Tight End prospects:

1. Kyle Pitts – Florida       

Pitts is an elite receiving tight end with the ability to align outside, in the slot or with his hand in the dirt. He is by far and away the best TE in this group and shows the potential for a high ceiling. In his rookie season he could be like the aforementioned Waller, but at a minimum he could be a second wide receiver hauling in a few big catches here and there. Pitts feels like a can’t miss pick this year.

Pick Range: Top 10

2. Pat Freiermuth – Penn State

Freiermuth is a do-it-all tight end. He blocks, runs nice routes, and wins tons of contested catches. If he hits his maximum potential, he could be another version of Gronk. Coming off a shoulder surgery drops his stock a bit. I would suggest it isn’t too big of a cause for concern.

Pick Range: Late 1^st – Early 3^rd Round

3. Brevin Jordan – Miami FL

Jordan is best as a blocking tight end. He is still working on developing his pass catching skills but can be a freight train after he does touch the ball. If any team wants a nice blocker with marginal receiving production, Jordan is the guy. He will be best utilized in short yardage situations.

Pick Range: 2^nd – 4^th Round

4. Hunter Long – Boston College

In the dictionary, Long is the definition of a stereotypical tight end at 6’5” and 254 pounds. A benefit for him is that he was a feature in the Boston College offense and saw many targets. Long’s size alone might elevate him to an earlier selection on Friday. He still needs some touchup work, yet has the assets needed to be great.

Pick Range: 2^nd – 4^th Round

5. Tommy Tremble – Notre Dame

Tremble never saw number one tight end action in college. The Fighting Irish history with tight ends mostly brings about the hype for Tremble. Despite this fact, Tremble is just a hard-nosed, not flashy, get the job done TE. Tremble is a nasty blocker and would be incredible with a run heavy offense. If someone is looking for a number one receiving tight end, then Tremble is probably not that guy. He has room to grow due to his athleticism.

Pick Range: 2^nd – 4^th Round

6. Tre’ McKitty – Georgia

McKitty is a physical blocker and a redzone target. He will instantly be a number two or even three tight end. Some nice value in the middle rounds for a team needing tight end depth.

Pick Range: 3^rd – 5^th  Round

7. Cary Angeline – NC State

Angeline is simply a basketball player wearing pads. At 6’7” he offers a mismatch every time on the field. Not only does he have the height but also the hands to haul in tough catches. He will not create separation, but give him an elevated ball in the back of the endzone all day.

Pick Range: 4^th – 5^th  Round

8. Kenny Yeboah – Ole Miss

If I have to give Yeboah a comparison from an initial look, O.J. Howard comes to mind. Yeboah is best as a pass catcher with some nice route running ability. He is a mediocre blocker but not a liability for the team. He could be a steal in this draft.

Pick Range: 4^th – 5^th  Round

9. Nick Eubanks – Michigan

Eubanks was another Michigan weapon that underperformed this past season. Even though it hurt his stock, there is no question that some fine tuning could equate to receptions. If he lands in a multi-set TE system where he slips free in play-action, he might actually shine.

Pick Range: 5^th – 7^th Round

10. Luke Farrell – Ohio State                   

Farrell is slipping under the radar big time. He is a fantastic blocker, a team player and is an underrated pass catcher. If you need proof, watch his TD versus Michigan State where he breaks several arm tackles and his one hand TD grab against Rutgers. He should be selected on day three. If not… a team will need to pick him up quickly.

Pick Range: 5^th – 7^th Round