The free agent tight end market has thinned considerably. Players who the Ravens have been tied to all offseason are being snatched up by other teams – most recently Rob Housler signing with Cleveland.
There are a few more names out there that the Ravens may be interested in (such as Zach Miller) But if Housler is any indication, those still remaining are seeking more money than the Ravens are apparently willing to offer.
Consequently the Ravens may have to address the tight end position during the draft. If you’ve been following the draft at all (let’s be honest it’s kind of hard to avoid) then you probably realize that this year’s tight end class is not very deep. Most pundits agree that the top two tight ends in the 2015 NFL draft are Maxx Williams (Minnesota) and Clive Walford (Miami).
Baltimore would love to land one of those two, but they aren’t going to reach in the draft to make that happen. If Baltimore misses on both of those prospects there is a bit of a drop off. Having said that, let’s take a look at potential tight end targets that will be available later on in the draft.
Nick O’Leary, 6’3” 252 lbs., Florida State
O’Leary struggled at the combine and his stock fell because of it. That may work out perfectly for Baltimore. O’Leary won’t blow anyone away with his athleticism. His speed and explosiveness have left scouts wanting more. But, O’Leary is a throwback football player. He doesn’t wear gloves, but has displayed some of the best hands in the draft. If you throw it near the guy, he’s going to come down with it. He is a willing blocker, but will need to add strength to become truly effective at the next level.
Jeff Heuerman, 6’5” 254 lbs., Ohio State
Heuerman struggled to stay on the field in 2014 due to nagging injuries. He missed several games and his underwhelming stats (17 receptions 207 yards and two touchdowns) are illustrative of that. Heuerman will have to improve his route running to ensure he will be effective in the NFL. He has the ability to be moved around the formation an is as comfortable playing inline as he is split out wide. Heuerman has been getting a lot of love from scouts and will look to live up to that potential.
Blake Bell, 6’6” 252 lbs., Oklahoma
Bell was a quarterback for most of his college career. Before his senior year, Bell made the switch to tight end. He is not fully comfortable at the position yet, but does show tremendous potential. Bell is a more effective pass catcher than you would expect, effectively using his size and displaying soft hands. Bell has not proven his ability to block, but scouts are hoping that will come as he grows more accustomed to the position. Bell’s experience at quarterback allows him to see the field and read a defense. As a result he has shown a knack for getting open while finding soft spots against zone coverage.
