NFL Draft – TE Rankings

Russ Isabella-USA TODAY Sports

11.) Jake Murphy, Utah (6’4, 254): Well rounded tight end who can block, run good routes, has soft hands, decent speed (4.79) and is tough to bring down after he catches the ball. He’s Hall of Famer Dale Murphy’s son, but he reminds me more of a poor man’s Heath Miller. Draft Projection: 6th-7th round

12.) Richard Rodgers, California (6’4, 257): Rodgers ran a disappointing 4.87 40 at the combine otherwise his draft stock would be a round or two higher. He looks faster than that on tape and has good enough hands and ball skills to be a weapon in the middle of the field. He’s not much of a blocker, so if he doesn’t develop into a receiver quickly, he won’t be in the league for long. Draft Projection: 5th-6th round

13.) Xavier Grimble, USC (6’4, 257): Good physical tools, but disappointing production last year (25-271-2). Grimble needs a year or two of development, but has the size, speed, and hands to eventually blossom into a dangerous receiving option. Draft Projection: 6th-7th round

14.) Reggie Jordan, Missouri Western (6’3, 240): Good straight line speed and had top scores at the combine in both the cone and shuttle drills. He’s a little small, but blocked well albeit against small school competition. Jordan is raw, but has the athleticism and potential to make an impact in the NFL. Draft Projection: UFA

15.) Jon Don Duncan, Dixie St (6’3, 268): Very strong (35 reps of 225 pounds) H-back prospect with excellent hands but limited athleticism. Duncan dominated against inferior competition at Dixie St, but wasn’t able to prove himself at the Senior Bowl due to a foot injury. Duncan has had plenty of injury issues in his college career so that is something that teams will have to vet. He’s a bit of a question mark, but looks good on tape and is worth a practice squad spot. Draft Projection: 6th-7th round