2028 Tight Ends Bringing Size, Skill, and Upside

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>The tight end position continues to evolve, and the 2028 class is already showing plenty of talent with prospects who can impact the game in multiple ways. From physical in-line blockers to athletic pass catchers who can stretch the field, this group has a strong mix of size, versatility, and upside. Many of these young tight ends are beginning to develop into true matchup problems, capable of creating space in the passing game while also bringing toughness in the run game. As they continue to grow physically and sharpen their overall skill set, the future of the position looks bright with several names already starting to separate themselves early.<br><br></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["2139815"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6a1714f1379c8"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Koleman already carries himself like a major mismatch at the TE position. At 6'6, he presents problems for defenses before the ball is even snapped because of his length and ability to win in contested situations. He shows soft hands and does a good job tracking the football down the field, especially when working the seams or finding space underneath. What makes him intriguing is that he moves better than most players his size, showing enough athleticism to stretch the field and create separation against linebackers. As a blocker, he competes with toughness and doesn't shy away from contact, which adds value to his overall game. With another offseason to develop physically and continue refining his routes, he has all the tools to take a major jump during his junior campaign.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/hudl {"name":"acf/hudl","data":{"embed_code":"u003ciframe src=u0022https://www.hudl.com/embed/video/3/23254388/69239b20776090401cce676eu0022 width=u0022640u0022 height=u0022360u0022 frameborder=u00220u0022 allowfullscreenu003eu003c/iframeu003e","_embed_code":"field_62daf7995fd8c"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6a1714f137b05"} /--> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["2108585"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6a1714f137b37"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Weston looks like he already picked up right where he left off from last season. The TE continues to show confidence in his game and plays with a steady presence every time the ball comes his way. He does a strong job finding soft spots in coverage and gives his quarterback a reliable target underneath and over the middle. What stands out is how comfortable he looks playing fast while staying under control, especially after the catch. He's also showing growth physically, helping him hold his own as a blocker and finish plays with more toughness. Weston looks poised to take another step this season and could become an even bigger piece of the offense moving forward.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/hudl {"name":"acf/hudl","data":{"embed_code":"u003ciframe src=u0022https://www.hudl.com/embed/video/3/23549151/696aa2f7d60051d4db6e6c05u0022 width=u0022640u0022 height=u0022360u0022 frameborder=u00220u0022 allowfullscreenu003eu003c/iframeu003e","_embed_code":"field_62daf7995fd8c"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6a1714f137b4b"} /--> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1586227"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6a1714f137b6f"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Sloan shows his versatility by not only lining up at the TE position, but also being able to slide into the slot and create matchup problems in space. He moves well for his size and looks comfortable running routes against defensive backs and linebackers alike. His ability to stretch the field while still bringing physicality to the offense makes him a valuable piece for any scheme. Sloan also flashes reliable hands and does a good job adjusting to the football, especially in traffic. The versatility in his game is what separates him, because he can impact an offense in multiple ways instead of being limited to one. Sloan going into his junior year looking to make an impact.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:embed {"url":"https://twitter.com/SloanBlackwell/status/2031786993907048903?s=20","type":"rich","providerNameSlug":"twitter","responsive":true} --> <figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper"> https://twitter.com/SloanBlackwell/status/2031786993907048903?s=20 </div></figure> <!-- /wp:embed --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1585575"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6a1714f137b94"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Derrick brings a physical presence to the TE position and plays with the kind of edge coaches love to see. He embraces contact whether it's finishing blocks in the run game or fighting through defenders after the catch. On film, he shows dependable hands and does a solid job securing the football in traffic, especially on short and intermediate routes. What stands out most is the toughness he plays with he's the type of TE willing to do the dirty work while still being a reliable target offensively.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/hudl {"name":"acf/hudl","data":{"embed_code":"u003ciframe src=u0022https://www.hudl.com/embed/video/3/23095822/67054d9544757d74a2846508u0022 width=u0022640u0022 height=u0022360u0022 frameborder=u00220u0022 allowfullscreenu003eu003c/iframeu003e","_embed_code":"field_62daf7995fd8c"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6a1714f137ba5"} /--> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["2119592"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6a1714f137bc3"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Jaxon has been one of the biggest spring risers at the TE position, and the offers are starting to stack up fast for a reason. At 6'4, he has the frame college coaches want, but it's the way he's producing right now that's really turning heads. He's shown he can attack all three levels of the field, whether it's working underneath, stretching the seam, or making plays in the red zone. There's a natural feel to his game as a receiver , he tracks the ball well and doesn't waste movement getting in and out of his breaks.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/hudl {"name":"acf/hudl","data":{"embed_code":"u003ciframe src=u0022https://www.hudl.com/embed/video/3/23189877/68dc37741d7e48f1c19bfb62u0022 width=u0022640u0022 height=u0022360u0022 frameborder=u00220u0022 allowfullscreenu003eu003c/iframeu003e","_embed_code":"field_62daf7995fd8c"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6a1714f137bd2"} /--> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1981864"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6a1714f137bfa"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Luke is heading into his junior season with real momentum after putting together a productive year with 31 receptions for 395 yards and 3 touchdowns. He's shown he can be a steady option in the passing game, consistently moving the chains and giving his offense a reliable target when plays break down. What stands out is his ability to find space in coverage and make himself available, especially in the intermediate part of the field.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>As he steps into this next season, the expectation is a bigger role and more production, and his skill set suggests he's ready for it. He's already proven he can contribute, now it's about becoming a more featured weapon and taking advantage of increased opportunities.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:embed {"url":"https://twitter.com/LukePeace_84/status/2004703194275086652?s=20","type":"rich","providerNameSlug":"twitter","responsive":true} --> <figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper"> https://twitter.com/LukePeace_84/status/2004703194275086652?s=20 </div></figure> <!-- /wp:embed --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1148813"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6a1714f137c1e"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Caden is one of those tight ends who changes the feel of a play the moment he gets the ball in his hands. What really stands out is what he does after the catch he doesn't just go down easy, he fights for extra yards and turns short gains into explosive plays. He shows good body control in space and has the balance to stay upright through contact, which makes him dangerous on quick hitters and underneath routes.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>As a receiver, he's becoming more consistent in securing the football and showing trust from his quarterback in tight situations. That yards-after-catch ability is what separates him from a lot of similar sized TEs, because he can flip field position in a hurry. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/hudl {"name":"acf/hudl","data":{"embed_code":"u003ciframe src=u0022https://www.hudl.com/embed/video/3/21588462/68faf3e2ea707630a706c2b8u0022 width=u0022640u0022 height=u0022360u0022 frameborder=u00220u0022 allowfullscreenu003eu003c/iframeu003e","_embed_code":"field_62daf7995fd8c"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6a1714f137c2c"} /--> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["2130014"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6a1714f137c4a"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Ben is one of those steady, dependable tight ends who brings value in every phase of the game. He's physical as a blocker and doesn't shy away from lining up in-line and handling defensive ends or linebackers at the point of attack. That willingness in the run game already makes him a coach's favorite because he helps set the tone up front.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>On the receiving side, he's just as reliable. Ben shows sure hands and does a good job finishing plays when the ball comes his way, especially on short to intermediate routes. He's not flashy, but he's efficient — he understands spacing and knows how to present a clean target for his quarterback. Ben is a TE to look forward too in 2026.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:embed {"url":"https://twitter.com/BenCreech85/status/2037517706795081799?s=20","type":"rich","providerNameSlug":"twitter","responsive":true} --> <figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper"> https://twitter.com/BenCreech85/status/2037517706795081799?s=20 </div></figure> <!-- /wp:embed --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["2144650"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6a1714f137c6a"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Hayden has a quiet but steady impact every time he's on the field. He doesn't need a lot of volume to stay involved in the offense because he understands how to work within the flow of a drive and find his moments. As a receiver, he's reliable when the ball comes his way and does a good job keeping plays alive by securing catches in tight windows.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>What you also notice is his awareness he finds ways to stay useful even when he's not the first read, whether that's settling into soft spots in coverage or sealing off defenders in the run game.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/hudl {"name":"acf/hudl","data":{"embed_code":"u003ciframe src=u0022https://www.hudl.com/embed/video/3/22500155/696ada4a234349f2f132c329u0022 width=u0022640u0022 height=u0022360u0022 frameborder=u00220u0022 allowfullscreenu003eu003c/iframeu003e","_embed_code":"field_62daf7995fd8c"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6a1714f137c79"} /--> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["2197623"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6a1714f137c95"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Brenden is the type of tight end defenses have to account for every snap because of how smoothly he moves in space. He plays with the fluidity of a wide receiver, showing clean releases off the line and the ability to separate from linebackers who can't match his change of direction. Once he gets into his route, he's comfortable attacking different levels of the field and doesn't look out of place stretching defenses vertically.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>That movement skill makes him a true mismatch piece too quick for most traditional TEs and too big for smaller defensive backs. He's also showing natural hands and the ability to adjust to throws away from his body, which adds another layer to his game.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:embed {"url":"https://twitter.com/MrJDavis96/status/2057992342947217890?s=20","type":"rich","providerNameSlug":"twitter","responsive":true} --> <figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper"> https://twitter.com/MrJDavis96/status/2057992342947217890?s=20 </div></figure> <!-- /wp:embed --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["2216370"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6a1714f137cb5"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Adrian is a TE worth keeping an eye on this season because the tools are clearly there to work with. He already has the size you want at the position, and he uses it well when working through contact or finishing plays in traffic. What stands out early is his hands — he shows the ability to extend and secure the football even when defenders are closing fast, which gives his quarterback some confidence throwing into tight windows.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Heading into the season, the next step for Adrian is turning those physical traits into more consistent production. When he's locked in, he can be a dependable target over the middle and a real presence in the red zone.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["2216373"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6a1714f137cd3"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>James is a steady tight end who plays with a good feel for the game and doesn't try to do too much outside of his role. He works well within the offense, understands spacing, and gives his quarterback a dependable option when plays break down or when they need an easy completion to move the chains. His hands are consistent, and he does a solid job securing the ball in traffic without getting rattled by contact.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>What stands out most is his awareness as a route runner he won't always be the fastest or flashiest, but he knows how to find openings and present himself as an easy target. He's also willing in the blocking game and competes enough to stay involved in multiple packages.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/hudl {"name":"acf/hudl","data":{"embed_code":"u003ciframe src=u0022https://www.hudl.com/embed/video/3/23014113/68daab8acb3ac431ba597c80u0022 width=u0022640u0022 height=u0022360u0022 frameborder=u00220u0022 allowfullscreenu003eu003c/iframeu003e","_embed_code":"field_62daf7995fd8c"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6a1714f137ce2"} /--> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["2216384"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6a1714f137cfe"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Paxton is one of those tight ends who quietly affects the game in multiple ways without needing a ton of touches to make his presence felt. He shows good control as a receiver, especially when working the middle of the field where he can settle into soft spots and give his quarterback a clean target. There's a natural feel to how he tracks the ball, and he does a solid job finishing catches through contact instead of shying away from traffic.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>What also stands out is his effort as a blocker he's not just filling a spot on the line, he competes and stays engaged through the play, which helps him stay on the field in different situations. Paxton's game is built more on reliability and consistency than flash, but that kind of trust factor is what earns tight ends bigger roles over time.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:embed {"url":"https://twitter.com/TheonePsouthard/status/2028297724056195190?s=20","type":"rich","providerNameSlug":"twitter","responsive":true} --> <figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper"> https://twitter.com/TheonePsouthard/status/2028297724056195190?s=20 </div></figure> <!-- /wp:embed --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["2216389"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6a1714f137d1f"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Berr is a tight end who plays with a calm, steady approach and doesn't get sped up by what's happening around him. He shows solid hands as a pass catcher and does a good job finishing plays when the ball is thrown his way, especially on short and intermediate routes where timing matters. There's a dependable feel to his game — he's where he's supposed to be, and that makes him a reliable option for his quarterback.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>As a blocker, he competes and stays active through the whistle, even if he's still developing some of the strength and leverage consistency needed at the next level. Berr isn't overly flashy, but he brings stability and assignment sound football, which keeps him involved in different looks and packages.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:embed {"url":"https://twitter.com/berrkogler/status/1989155235479318844?s=20","type":"rich","providerNameSlug":"twitter","responsive":true} --> <figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper"> https://twitter.com/berrkogler/status/1989155235479318844?s=20 </div></figure> <!-- /wp:embed --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["2216610"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6a1714f137d3d"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Easton looks like a tight end who's putting the work in during the offseason and it's starting to show in how he carries himself on the field. Training with David Johnson has clearly helped sharpen his approach, especially in how he moves in space and attacks his routes with more purpose. He looks more confident getting in and out of breaks, and there's a smoother rhythm to his game as a pass catcher.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>What stands out is that he's not just relying on size — he's learning how to win with technique, timing, and better body control. In the passing game, he's becoming more reliable working the middle of the field and showing improved focus finishing through contact. That offseason grind is also translating to the run game, where he's more engaged and consistent as a blocker.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:embed {"url":"https://twitter.com/easton_nied_17/status/2050967040203063355?s=20","type":"rich","providerNameSlug":"twitter","responsive":true} --> <figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper"> https://twitter.com/easton_nied_17/status/2050967040203063355?s=20 </div></figure> <!-- /wp:embed --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1172978"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6a1714f137d5c"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Braxton's been putting in real work this offseason, and it shows in how much cleaner and more confident his game looks. He's moving with better purpose now, especially as a pass catcher, where his timing and focus have started to tighten up. You can tell he's been getting extra reps — the way he tracks the ball and finishes catches looks more natural and less forced than before.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>What stands out is the small improvements stacking up: quicker transitions in and out of his breaks, better body control in traffic, and a stronger overall feel for when to settle versus continue routes. He's also added more consistency as a blocker, staying engaged and showing better effort through contact. Braxton looks like a player who used the offseason the right way, and it's starting to carry over into real growth on the field.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["2216474"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6a1714f137d79"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Gabe is the type of tight end who brings stability to an offense without needing a heavy workload to make an impact. He plays with good awareness, finding soft spots in coverage and giving his quarterback a reliable option when things break down. As a receiver, he's comfortable working underneath routes and does a solid job securing the football cleanly before turning upfield for extra yards.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>What separates him a bit is how composed he stays through contact he doesn't panic in traffic and usually finishes plays the right way. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>The 2028 tight end group continues to show why the position is becoming one of the most valuable in football. With a mix of size, athleticism, physicality, and receiving ability, this class has plenty of young talent developing across the board. As these prospects continue to grow, improve their strength, and gain more experience, expect several of these names to take major jumps over the next few seasons. The future at tight end is in good hands, and the 2028 class is only getting started.<br></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph -->