Lance Kendrick is amongst the best tight ends in the 2011 NFL Draft.

Tight end marks the first spot on the offensive side of the football that the Buccaneers may feel inclined to make a selection for in the first half of the draft (the other being at guard). Kellen Winslow has been phenomenal since arriving in Tampa, even when his numbers are not incredible he still manages to be a safety net for Josh Freeman and always seems to make the big grab when necessary. Unfortunately, Winslow’s history of injuries and the Bucs’ lack of a second viable option at tight end makes this position a little bit of a secondary need for the Buccaneers. This year’s class of tight ends is a diverse mix of players from major schools, mid-major schools and non-FBS schools.

Here are the top Tight Ends in the 2011 draft:

1.) Kyle Rudolph, Notre Dame- Rudolph should end up getting picked in the back half of the first round, possibly early second. His measurables don’t blow you away but he still shows up on paper as a formidable target. The issues facing Rudolph are his injury history and his lack of technique on open-field blocking, there are also some questions about his ability to handle the more physical linebackers in the NFL. Still, this is a high-character kid who runs like a receiver, has above average hands and will get nasty after the catch. He could be a huge steal if he falls to the Bucs in round two, but I wouldn’t count on it.

2.) Lance Kendricks, Wisconsin- Kendricks is a receiver-turned-tight end. His ability to split the seam, catch the ball and run with it are all amongst the best at his position in this draft. Kendricks ran a 4.65-40 at the combine which he improved to 4.5 at Wisconsin’s pro-day. In pads, Kendricks is quick without great straight-line speed, but at the tight end position he would be considered a fast player. The concern with Kendricks comes from his blocking, which though not lacking in effort, is still developing. Kendricks understands the concepts, the angles and does have above average upper-body strength at this stage in the transition (something a lot of former receivers struggle with) but he can also be shed in the open field by stronger defenders and his footwork off the edge is at times chaotic.

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