Hunter Bryant | TE | Washington
Elevator Pitch
Bryant is one of the top tight ends in the upcoming NFL draft class. He isn’t your grandfather’s type of tight end, but more of a big slot receiver in the body of a tight end. Bryant is an absolute weapon in the passing game, if you are looking for a pass catching threat then this Bryant is for you. Get him running up the seams and let the man work.
Vitals
Height | 6-2
Weight | 248
Class | Junior
Strengths
In today’s NFL, it is less about set roles and more about the matchups. Bryant provides the opportunity to get a favorable matchup in the passing game. He can be too powerful for smaller defensive backs to deal with and too quick for most linebackers.
Bryant possesses good hands at the position. He uses his big mitts well to pluck the ball out of the air and does a good job of catching the ball outside of his frame. Going above defensive backs poses no issue as Bryant will use every bit of his 76 1/2″ wingspan to his advantage. When matched up with smaller defenders, using his frame to “box them out” is just another way he wins.
Once Bryant gets the ball in his hands, defenders beware. One of his best qualities is the ability to get yards after the catch. His 4.74 speed will be on full display. His burst off the line and coming in and out of breaks gives him ample opportunity to create space needed for long runs after the catch. Two of his three touchdowns came on receptions of 20+ yards.
Weaknesses
Playing as an inline tight end is a big part of what Bryant needs the most work on at the next level. He really gives you nothing when asked to block and open holes in the run game. Blocking on the perimeter isn’t much better. Asking him to participate in blocking is a waste of his talent until he works on technique.
Given his size, you would expect him to be more physical. Working with strength coaches and a position coach will be crucial. Despite instances of brilliance with contested catches, Bryant needs to be more consistent. His production could be a concern, but he has shown that he can be a viable target up the seams.
Projection: Top 100
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