The tight end position has revolutionized offenses in the NFL, and the Jacksonville Jaguars need to catch up to the trend. The Jaguars selected tight end Josh Oliver in the third round of the 2019 draft. Despite earning high praise during training camp, Oliver did not see the field much this past season. He dealt with a nagging hamstring injury and the Jaguars were left with only his potential.
Although the 2020 draft class does not boast the high-profile names of last year, there are still some names on the tight end board that can make an impact. The Jaguars will take note of three of these tight ends as they prepare for the Senior Bowl in a few days.
Jacksonville Jaguars Tight End Targets At the Senior Bowl
Harrison Bryant, TE, Florida Atlantic
Height: 6-5. Weight: 240 (South Team)
Although Harrison Bryant may not be a household name, he is known among NFL executives. And that is all that matters for the next few months.
Bryant first garnered national attention following a strong junior season for the Owls and earning All-Conference honors with 45 receptions for 662 yards. This set the stage for a breakout performance his senior year in former head coach Lane Kiffin’s offense in Boca Raton. He stole the show.
During the 2019 season, Bryant hauled in 65 passes for over 1,000 yards and seven scores. He was the focal point of Kiffin’s offense and took over games periodically. His impressive year was enough for him to become the first player from a non-Power 5 school to receive the John Mackey Award (the nation’s top tight end). Additionally, Bryant was selected as a first-team All American (first ever for a player from FAU).
Despite the accolades and statistics, questions still surround Bryant’s strength and toughness. Going against the best players on Saturday in the Senior Bowl will give him an opportunity to silence his critics.
Adam Trautman, TE, Dayton
Height: 6-6. Weight: 251 (North Team)
#SCTop10 One-Handed Catch from Adam Trautman on the trick play that put @DaytonFootball up early on Valpo. #GotGRIT🛩️ pic.twitter.com/igXybJH783
— Pioneer Football (@PFLNews) October 12, 2019
Perhaps the most intriguing tight end suiting up Saturday in the Senior Bowl is Adam Trautman from Dayton University. Although he may have entered the week in relative obscurity, Trautman has already created a buzz in Mobile, Alabama. And why not? Along with a passion for the game, he brings a little chip on his shoulder. A little extra motivation to compete every down. He is one of the most prolific players at the FCS-level and is excited to perform against defenders from the Power 5 schools.
All Trautman did in 2019 was catch 70 passes for 916 yards and a whopping 14 touchdowns for the Flyers in 11 games. He shows tremendous versatility and can make plays across the entire field. Of course the knock on him will be the quality of opponents he lined up against. But that is what makes the Senior Bowl so unique. Besides Dallas Goedart went to South Dakota State and shined in the Senior Bowl in 2018. Keep an eye on Trautman this week in Mobile. The Jaguars will be.
Sean McKeon, TE, Michigan
Height: 6-5. Weight: 246 (North Team)
Sean McKeon said 🤫🤫🤫, this is light work. @UMichFootball pads the lead in the second: pic.twitter.com/Xb6VuKfrHe
— Michigan On BTN (@MichiganOnBTN) September 1, 2019
Although his numbers from 2019 will not blow you away, Sean McKeon will be a sought after asset in April’s NFL Draft. His biggest appeal is his versatility within an offense. Whether lined up in a traditional setting next to a tackle, or flexed out in the slot, McKeon can be a mismatch. What he lacks in speed he makes up for in overall production. Solid run blocker who is consistent and reliable.
But there are several doubters out there that don’t even have McKeon on their draft board. Enamored with numbers, I guess. However it’s only January, right? With a solid week in Mobile, he has a chance to open some eyes. Therefore having a chance to sneak into the late rounds of the draft in April. Perhaps then, the Jaguars will come calling to add him to a depleted position on the roster.
Three graduated seniors looking to propel themselves in a conversation this weekend. Perhaps you can refer to them as the law firm of McKeon, Bryant, and Trautman. The Reese’s Senior Bowl will be a huge audition for these three tight ends. The entire week is certainly worth watching to see which one will emerge from the pack.
Main photo:
Embed from Getty Images
