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NFL Draft 2017: Ranking the top 5 tight ends

By Zach Bigalke

Dec 28, 2016; Orlando, FL, USA; Miami Hurricanes tight end David Njoku (86) dives for the end zone to score a touchdown against the West Virginia Mountaineers during the second half at Camping World Stadium. The Miami Hurricanes defeat the West Virginia Mountaineers 31-14. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 28, 2016; Orlando, FL, USA; Miami Hurricanes tight end David Njoku (86) dives for the end zone to score a touchdown against the West Virginia Mountaineers during the second half at Camping World Stadium. The Miami Hurricanes defeat the West Virginia Mountaineers 31-14. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports /
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Dec 28, 2016; Orlando, FL, USA; Miami Hurricanes tight end David Njoku (86) dives for the end zone to score a touchdown against the West Virginia Mountaineers during the second half at Camping World Stadium. The Miami Hurricanes defeat the West Virginia Mountaineers 31-14. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 28, 2016; Orlando, FL, USA; Miami Hurricanes tight end David Njoku (86) dives for the end zone to score a touchdown against the West Virginia Mountaineers during the second half at Camping World Stadium. The Miami Hurricanes defeat the West Virginia Mountaineers 31-14. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports /

Miami surged to a nine-win season in 2016, and David Njoku was a big part of the team’s renaissance. The 6-foot-4, 240-pound tight end from New Jersey tied for the lead in receiving touchdowns among Power Five tight ends last year. He also doubled his productivity in his last season in Coral Gables, hauling in nearly 700 yards.

That he did this all while adjusting to a new offense under Mark Richt shows his versatility and ability to learn quickly.

Njoku also helped himself out by finishing as one of the best all-around performers among tight ends at this year’s NFL Combine. He posted the second-best broad jump distance (133.0 inches) and tied for third in both the three-cone drill and the vertical leap.

While he didn’t post a very fast 40 time, his other displays showcased a gifted athlete who has the physical tools to challenge NFL secondaries. He is still a raw prospect who needs to learn better blocking techniques, but Njoku has all the tools to blossom in the pros.

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