When the Denver Broncos picked UCLA tight end Greg Dulcich in the third round of the NFL draft last month, pundits were quick to note Dulcich’s receiving ability while also noting his struggles a blocker.
Dulcich has rebuffed the criticism of his blocking, dubbing himself a “great blocker” after the draft. Analysts clearly disagree. Perhaps the disconnect between opinions stems from Dulcich’s willingness to block. The tight end doesn’t shy away from it (and believes he’s good at it), but his technique could use refining.
“The willingness is there. The willingness is there,” offensive coordinator Justin Outten said last week. “The overall college mindset of being an effort guy [is there]. The technique has to come, and he’s going to get there pretty shortly.”
Broncos head coach Nathaniel Hackett also noted Dulcich’s willingness to block last week, so it’s clear that the coaches are on the same page.
Dulcich is known as a receiving tight end and having played a versatile role in a pro-style offense in college has already helped him in the NFL.
“He lined up all over the place [at UCLA],” Outten said. “In order to do that in any system, you have to be a smart player. Reading coverages is one of his strengths.”
The smarts are there and the receiving talent is well-known. Denver’s staff is hoping the blocking technique will soon following, making Dulcich a complete player.
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