It is no secret that Eric Ebron, Jace Amaro, and Austin Seferian-Jenkins are the best tight ends in May's draft. Ebron is a wide receiver in a tight end's body. Amaro is an excellent pass-catcher and run-blocker. Seferian-Jenkins has the build to be a beast in the NFL, but he does have some character concerns. After the three, there are many tight ends that could make an impact at the next level. In this article, I will name a few players who have the skills to make an impact for the NFL that drafts him.
Troy Niklas, Notre Dame
It was surprising when Niklas left Notre Dame early for the NFL draft. While he didn't produce as many thought he would in college, it should be known that Niklas was kept out of the spotlight because of Tyler Eifert playing in front of him. At 6'6", 270 pounds, NIklas has the frame that scouts love for a tight end. In fact, Niklas is able to go up and make a ton of catches because he uses his body so well to box out defenders. Niklas has to work on his route-running if he wants to become a top tight end in the NFL. Niklas could be used best in the redzone, going for one-on-ones against weaker and smaller defenders.
Projected Round-Three Pick
C.J. Fiedorowicz, Iowa
Although he is not as athletic as NFL teams would like, Fiedorowicz is towering tight end that is extremely built. At 6'7", Fiedorowicz is a tough guy to match up against. Fiedorowicz is perhaps the best run-blocking tight end in this entire class. While he may not be able to ever spread fields in the NFL, he provides matchup nightmares for opposing defenses. In a "12" personnel offense, Fiedorowicz could thrive tremendously.
Projected Round-Three Pick
Crockett Gillmore, Colorado State
Colorado State has one of the best offenses in college football in 2013, ad Crockett Gillmore was a big reason for that. Gillmore shined in the East-West Shrine Game. In fact, many are talking up the tight end. Gillmore does have many measurements that stand out, but he is just a consistent playmaker. Gillmore is a great route-runner, and he is also extremely versatile. This means that he could play multiple NFL offenses.
Projected Round-Five Pick
Joe Don Duncan, Dixie State
Don't let his college scare you. Joe Don Duncan is an extremely unique football player. During his time at Dixie State, Duncan became the main weapon in this offense. Duncan's college play was recognized, as he received an invite to the Senior Bowl. Duncan could find his niche at the next level in a role similar to James Casey's. The Philadelphia Eagle is a proven commodity in Chip Kelly's system, as he is an H-Back and a versatile tight end. Duncan could very well play a similar role like that in the NFL.
Projected Round-Six Pick