NFL Combine 2015: Tight Ends to watch
Jan 22, 2015; Mobile, AL, USA; South squad tight end Clive Walford of Miami (46) pulls in a pass during Senior Bowl practice at Ladd-Peebles Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports
With Dennis Pitta‘s hip a question mark, Owen Daniels‘ free agency status a question mark and Crockett Gillmore‘s experience a question mark, the Baltimore Ravens have their share of question marks at tight end. Whether through the draft or free agency, the Ravens will add a tight end. Here are some to watch at the NFL Combine 2015.
Maxx Williams (RS-Sophomore, Minnesota)
One of the most impressive athletes in the draft, Maxx Williams had his share of highlight-reel plays despite not having a big role at Minnesota. Whether it was hurdling a Missouri defender or catching a touchdown in the flat, Williams was a big play machine.
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Don’t be shocked if Williams stock is on the rise after the combine. On film, Williams looked like he should run in the 4.6s, though he looks a little straight-linish. Accordingly, Williams might not be quite as impressive in the three-cone drill and shuttles.
Where Williams could wow most is the interview process. Williams plays like his hair is on fire, giving great effort in both the ground game and the passing game. If he loves the game as much as he seems to on film, he should be a great interview.
Keep an eye on that 40-time. With a blazing time, which is very possible, Williams could catapult all the way to the early first round.
Clive Walford (SR, Miami)
With similar production to Williams but more polish, Clive Walford is an underrated part of an underrated tight end class. More polish should be expected for a player who is three-years older than Williams, though.
Walford looked like a very fluid, explosive athlete on film, with superior change-of-direction skills and above-average straight line speed for the position. Paired with soft hands, Walford is probably the most NFL-ready of all the tight ends in the draft, at least in terms of receiving ability.
There really aren’t a lot of question marks with Walford, though some question his long speed. Evidently outrunning the entire Florida State defense wasn’t enough to convince some people. Still, how Walford times will be fascinating. He could time very well and really boost his draft stock.
Other names to watch: Ben Koyack, Nick O’Leary, Tyler Kroft, Nick Boyle, Jesse James, Blake Bell