Role Fits For Standout TE Prospects In The State
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The role of the tight end position consistently changes across all football levels. In the article, I attempt what role will be best for these young tight-end prospects, as they ascend throughout their careers. ROLE: Blocking Tightend, with reliable hands…
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Continue ReadingThe role of the tight end position consistently changes across all football levels. In the article, I attempt what role will be best for these young tight-end prospects, as they ascend throughout their careers.
ROLE: Blocking Tightend, with reliable hands over the middle and in the red zone.
Player Comparison: Colby Parkinson, Los Angeles Rams
Matt Maietti is a standout tight-end prospect from Don Bosco with a unique skill set that sets him apart. Standing at 6’5” and weighing 250 pounds, Mayotte excels as a blocker, showcasing exceptional technique and leverage in both the run and pass-blocking game. His ability to stay low throughout his reps, generate power from his lower half, and block with precision makes him a versatile asset on the field.Mayotte’s blocking highlights demonstrate his ability to block on the run, from various alignments effectively, and against different types of defenders, including corners, linebackers, and edge players. He plays like an extra lineman, contributing significantly to his team’s ground game and pass protection.While Maietti doesn’t have many pass-catching highlights, his best role is likely as a possession tight end, making key catches for first downs and in the red zone. His blocking prowess and versatility make him a valuable asset in any offensive scheme.With his recent Power 5 offer from Vanderbilt, Maietti is an ascending prospect who could draw attention from coaches at the next level, particularly due to his fit in systems that prioritize blocking tight ends, such as that of head coach Sean McVay’s Los Angeles Rams.
Highlights
ROLE: Do It All TE
PLAYER COMPARISON: Jake Ferguson, Dallas Cowboys
Charlie Wingfield is an impressive tight-end prospect standing at 6’5” and weighing 235 pounds. With his athletic build and versatility, he can line up both in the slot and as an in-line tight end.One of Wingfield’s standout traits is his exceptional hands. He possesses soft, natural hands and can make catches in traffic, showing concentration and the ability to come down with contested catches. He excels in the scramble drill, showcasing a knack for getting open when the quarterback extends the play.Wingfield is also dangerous after the catch, capable of making plays and gaining extra yards with his athleticism and agility. He has emerged as an ascending prospect, receiving over 15 offers and committing to the University of Wake Forest.In terms of his role, Wingfield can serve as a big-bodied receiver, creating mismatches in the passing game, while also being a solid blocker when needed. His ability to contribute both as a receiver and a blocker makes him a valuable asset for any offense, and I’m eager to see how he progresses in his senior year.
CURRENT ROLE: TE/SLOT
PLAYER COMPARISON: MIKE GEISEKI, CINCINNATI BENGALS
TJ Walsh from Red Bank Catholic is an intriguing tight end prospect standing at 6’1” and weighing 205 pounds. Despite being young and still adding mass to his frame as a class of 2027 player, Walsh possesses an impressive body type with good arm length and a nice catch radius.Currently, Walsh plays as a move tight end, seeing snaps on the outside. One of his standout qualities is his ability after the catch. He displays agility and the capability to get open from various alignments, navigating through traffic effectively.As Walsh continues to develop, he projects to be a versatile tight end who can excel in multiple roles. While it’s too early to determine his exact role, given his current trajectory and skill set, he could become a tight end/slot hybrid similar to Bengals tight end Mike Gesicki, who also played in the Shore Conference.To reach his full potential, Walsh will need to focus on adding mass to his frame and improving as a blocker. However, with his skill set and potential, he will likely receive offers after his first varsity season and emerge as one of the top tight ends in his class.
Highlights
Brady Shust, a 6’6”, 245-pound tight end, is not only a standout football player but also excels in baseball. His athleticism and special gifts make him a standout at the tight end position. Shust possesses great hands and speed for his size, allowing him to stretch the field and exploit seams in the defense. Additionally, he’s adept at playing through contact with his big frame, making him a reliable target in the passing game.On the blocking front, Shust is versatile. He can handle first-level blocks effectively in both the running and passing game. Moreover, he’s capable of blocking in space and getting to the second level to open up running lanes for his teammates.Despite limited film due to underutilization in his previous team’s offense, Shust has attracted significant interest from Division I programs. He has received offers from notable schools such as Syracuse, Duke, UConn, Boston College, Virginia Tech, and James Madison.With a new coaching staff at St. Joe’s and a renewed emphasis on utilizing tight ends in the offense, Shust is poised to thrive and become a key weapon at the tight end position.
Highlights
Aiden Davis, standing at 6’2” and weighing 200 pounds, brings a lot of athleticism to the tight end position. He possesses a long, tall frame with room to add mass as he continues to grow into his body. As a receiver, Davis stands out for his soft, natural hands and ability to make plays after the catch. He demonstrates good agility and foot speed, allowing him to create separation and make things happen in the open field.In terms of blocking, Davis is effective at finishing blocks and shows the ability to attack the second level. His ability to maintain a low position and drive through his blocks adds value to his overall game.Davis is a well-rounded prospect with promising potential. He excels at running the under-drag route, which is a valuable route in any college and functional NFL offense. To further his development, expanding his route tree would be beneficial, giving him more opportunities to contribute in various situations.As Davis continues to develop, there is a significant sign of improvement on the horizon. With his combination of size, athleticism, and skill set, he is certainly one of the top tight ends in his class.