Ranking the top 10 tight ends in 2023 NFL Draft

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The Post’s Ryan Dunleavy gives his top 10 tight ends in this year’s NFL draft, based on evaluations and conversations with people around the league:

1. Dalton Kincaid, Utah, 6-foot-4, 246 pounds

Big slot receiver who is an adequate blocker. Drawing comparisons to three-time Pro Bowler Zach Ertz. Five-year college player could quickly blossom into a No. 1 target because his route-running creates separation and his sticky hands win 50/50 balls.

2. Michael Mayer, Notre Dame, 6-4, 249 pounds

More complete prospect than Kincaid, but not a four-wide game-changer. Old-school ability to put his hand in the dirt as a sixth run-blocking pseudo-offensive lineman, but that isn’t to discount his 18 career touchdowns while boxing out defenders.

3. Luke Musgrave, Oregon State, 6-6, 253 pounds

Natural pass-catcher when flexed off the line of scrimmage. Most linebackers won’t keep up with his vertical speed, assuming it’s the same after two knee injuries in three years. Most defensive backs will get out-jumped or out-wrestled for possession.


NFL draft
Michael Mayer, who played for Notre Dame, might be the most complete tight end prospect in the 2023 NFL Draft.
AP

4. Darnell Washington, Georgia, 6-7, 264 pounds

Unique set of skills: He is a plus run-blocker and a receiving target who can’t be overthrown with yards-after-catch potential. Forget press coverage, because he will power through it. Quarterbacks must trust that he will make tight-window catches.

5. Sam LaPorta, Iowa, 6-3, 245 pounds

As is often the case, look deeper than the numbers (five career touchdowns) when it comes to Iowa tight ends. Underutilized pass-catcher who is comfortable selling fakes to set up quick screens or working the middle of the field.

6. Tucker Kraft, South Dakota State, 6-5, 254 pounds

Raw ability after growing up playing nine-man football in South Dakota. Untapped athleticism, as he primarily was used as an in-line blocker. Broke 25 tackles on 92 catches over the past two seasons, per Pro Football Focus. Wide catch radius.

7. Luke Schoonmaker, Michigan, 6-5, 251 pounds

Seized opportunity to move up an injury-plagued depth chart. Known for opening running lanes, but flashed ability as a receiver with a knack for finding holes in zones. Needs physicality to translate more to fighting off man coverage.


Draft
Luke Schoonmaker started 11 games for Michigan as a fifth-year senior in 2022.
AP

8. Davis Allen, Clemson, 6-6, 245 pounds

Scouts rave about his ball skills and ability to turn 50/50 balls into 80/20 with body positioning. Most of his contested catches are mid-range gains, though, because a 4.84-second 40-yard dash isn’t going to result in big plays.

9. Josh Whyle, Cincinnati, 6-6, 248 pounds

Grinder who will sacrifice his body to lead block on the move. Consistent numbers include between 26 and 32 catches for between 326 and 353 yards over three straight seasons. Knocked off his routes by physical coverage, suggesting a need to get stronger.

10. Cameron Latu, Alabama, 6-4, 242 pounds

Averaged 14.1 yards per grab over past two seasons after 25 reception-less games early in his career, but didn’t score a touchdown in an underwhelming final season. Speed results in separation, but he sometimes turns his head before securing the catch.

Late Riser

Travis Vokolek, Nebraska, 6-6, 259 pounds

Father and uncle are college coaches. Spent two years at Rutgers and four at Nebraska. Big goal-line target in bunch formations with multiple tight ends, who moves along with his scrambling quarterback. Stays with his blocks.


Daft
Travis Vokolek played six college seasons, with two at Rutgers and the final four at Nebraska.
AP

Falling Fast

Brenton Strange, Penn State, 6-3, 253 pounds

Pedestrian times and measurements at the combine after averaging just 2.3 catches across 31 career starts. Plays physically, but sacrifices technique in his hurry to show competitiveness. More of an H-back than a true backup tight end.

Small-School Wonder

Zack Kuntz, Old Dominion, 6-7, 255 pounds

Started 15 career games last year before his season was cut short by injury. Athletic tools highlighted by wingspan and high school hurdles and high jump championships. Lanky frame needs development.

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