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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Oct 29, 2016; Oxford, MS, USA; Mississippi Rebels tight end Evan Engram (17) scores a touchdown during the first quarter of the game against the Auburn Tigers at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Bush-USA TODAY Sports /

The top player among tight ends in this year’s NFL Draft class is the same player that has been heralded since last season. Evan Engram, the Ole Miss star, led the nation at his position in yards per reception.

This year, though his averages dropped, Engram posted nearly 1,000 receiving yards and scored a touchdown on every eighth catch. At 6-foot-3 and 234 pounds, he is somewhat undersized at his position yet still big enough to take advantage of mismatches against linebackers in coverage.

Engram is a polished receiver with strong hands, and he separates himself from the other tight ends as a decent route runner. He has dealt with concentration issues in terms of drops, and when it comes to blocking Engram leaves much to be desired.

But for NFL franchises looking for a tight end that can be moved around the formation to take advantage of favorable coverage, there are no better prospects in this year’s draft than the Rebel.

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