NFL Draft 2017: Ranking the top 5 tight ends in the class

NFL Draft 2017: Ranking the top 5 tight ends

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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Nov 5, 2016; Durham, NC, USA; Virginia Tech Hokies tight end Bucky Hodges (7) pulls in a pass in front of Duke Blue Devils safety Alonzo Saxton II (21) in the first half of their game at Wallace Wade Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark Dolejs-USA TODAY Sports /

Despite playing the position for only three years before entering the NFL Draft, Bucky Hodges has been one of the nation’s most consistent and explosive tight ends the past two years at the FBS level. He averaged a touchdown every seventh reception throughout his three years of college ball, and Hodges is also the only tight end prospect who has posted at least 500 receiving yards in each of the past three seasons.

Where Hodges separates himself from the other tight ends is in leg strength. He placed first at this year’s NFL Combine in both the vertical jump and the broad jump, showcasing his leaping ability in several guises.

At 6-foot-7 and 245 pounds, Hodges presents a matchup nightmare for opposing defenses when he goes out as a receiver. He is still learning the intricacies of the position, but Hodges has the build and the building blocks to be a potential great at tight end.

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