JUNIORS
1. Austin Seferian-Jenkins, Washington
Steven Bisig-US PRESSWIRE
It’s rare that tight ends with Seferian-Jenkins skill set come around. At 6-foot-6, 258 pounds he moves with incredible speed, agility, and athleticism. He possesses the ability to flex out or play inline at the next level. His offseason arrest will raise red flags but his is a rare specimen that should be taken in the top 15 picks of the 2014 NFL Draft, if not much higher.
2. Colt Lyerla, Oregon
With the evolution of the tight end position in the NFL, guys like Colt Lyerla will be at a premium. Lyerla is a fantastic catcher of the football but isn’t asked to do much in the blocking game. He has the speed to stretch the defense and creates matchup nightmares against linebackers and most safeties with his combination of speed and size.
3. Eric Ebron, North Carolina
Ebron is a guy that not everyone will be familiar with but should emerge this season as a challenger to the top two underclassmen on this list. Ebron doesn’t have the greatest frame but will surprise you with his strength in the run game. His combination of speed and strength will make him a dangerous threat at the next level and he’s a candidate to emerge into the talk of the top tight ends in the draft with another solid season.
4. Jace Amaro, Texas Tech **Amaro was injured for much of last season but could emerge as one of the top 2014 TE’s with his blend of size, athleticism, and pass catching skills
5. Clive Walford, Miami
6. Xavier Grimble, USC
7. Nick O’Leary, Florida State
REDSHIRT SOPHOMORES
1. Jay Rome, Georgia
Jay Rome won’t be entering the 2014 NFL Draft but he’s one to watch for the 2015 NFL Draft. Rome was a highly recruited tight end with a nice blend of size, speed, and strength. He will have to play second fiddle to Arthur Lynch for another season but will be used in the passing game.
