2014 NFL Draft Prospect Profile, Austin Seferian-Jenkins, Tight End, Washington

Dec 27, 2013; San Francisco, CA, USA; Washington Huskies tight end Austin Seferian-Jenkins (88) is defended by BYU Cougars linebacker Uani

Austin Seferian-Jenkins – Tight End – Washington
Ht: 6’6’’
Wt: 266 lbs

2013 receiving statistics
36 Receptions
450 Yards
8 Touchdowns

Projected Round: 2

Austin Seferian-Jenkins was the first tight end on many boards during the pre-season. With the emergence of Eric Ebron and Jace Amaro, he quickly fell down the rankings. Even with being overshadowed, Seferian-Jenkins managed to be the 2013 John Mackey Award winner, which is given to the nation’s top tight end. He has had trouble with off the field issues in the past, but is too much of a threat on offense to overlook.

Positives:

He is physically gifted. At 6’6’’, 266 lbs, he is an instant mismatch. He is a very strong football player that can match his strength with great speed. He has long arms and the ability to get up and make a play for the ball no matter where it is placed. It is easy to see he was a former basketball player.

He has great speed off the line and does not slow down when making cuts in and out of routes. He can create separation with ease and will get open often. He is a big target for the quarterback and an intimidating red zone threat.

He has dependable hands. During his career at Washington he dealt with off target throws from Keith Price. He has the ability to adjust to the ball in the air and does a good job reeling it in. He does struggle with the occasional drop, but the positives out way the negatives in his catching ability.

No one will want to tackle him when he catches the ball. He is a tough guy to bring down. It sometimes take multiple defenders to take him to the ground. He has good break away speed as well as the physical dominance that you want in a pass catching tight end.

Negatives:

The one thing you will hear most about Seferian-Jenkins is his off the field status. He was charged with a DUI during his time in Washington and may have more red flags come his way during the scouting process. Both coaches and teammates of his have had his back when character issues have come up, but no stone will go unturned in the draft preparation process.

His blocking ability can sometimes be an issue. Although he has improved dramatically over his time in college, he still struggles in pass protection. On the bright side, he has developed into a fairly solid run-blocker. He does a good job opening lanes for the running game.

Conclusion:

Austin Seferian-Jenkins is part of the new breed of tight end in the NFL. He is a vertical threat as well as a monster red zone target. He can line up all over the field and can get open off the line. He is a high upside guy with the ability to be great. He will instantly become the quarterbacks’ favorite weapon. He would be a great addition to a team with a developing quarterback. A Rob Gronkowski-type player.