NFL Draft 2017: Ranking the top 5 tight ends

By Zach Bigalke | Apr 18, 2017

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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Jan 9, 2017; Tampa, FL, USA; Clemson Tigers tight end Jordan Leggett (16) catches a pass against Alabama Crimson Tide defensive back Ronnie Harrison (15) in the fourth quarter in the 2017 College Football Playoff National Championship Game at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports

Jan 9, 2017; Tampa, FL, USA; Clemson Tigers tight end Jordan Leggett (16) catches a pass against Alabama Crimson Tide defensive back Ronnie Harrison (15) in the fourth quarter in the 2017 College Football Playoff National Championship Game at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports /

As Clemson took down Alabama in this year’s College Football Playoff national championship, a key part of the victory was Tigers tight end Jordan Leggett.

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Against the Crimson Tide in the past two championship games, Leggett hauled in a dozen combined catches for 173 yards and a touchdown in the 2015 contest. Consistently putting up big numbers against top competition, Leggett has demonstrated an ability to perform when the stakes are highest.

The main knock against Leggett has always been his motivation when the stakes are lower, but all the physical tools are there to succeed. At 6-foot-5 and 258 pounds, Leggett is agile for his size. He had a less-than-impressive showing at the NFL Combine this year, especially since he declined to run the 40 against his peers.

But while Leggett is still somewhat raw as a prospect, his biggest issue has always been motivation rather than talent. There are no South Carolina States to take the day off against in the pros, which means he should be able to find the motivation to match his skills.