If I Had My Druthers . . . Tight Ends

Tight end prospect Jack Tabb

The following list is a wish list of tight end prospects in the Class of 2011.  This list takes into account Michigan's needs, its offensive system, and the depth chart.  For example, Jerell Adams is a very good overall athlete, but Michigan's lack of depth at tight end means that any tight end in this class has to be ready to contribute by 2012 at the latest.

1. Jay Rome - Valdosta, GA
Big (6'5", 255 lbs.), fast, and physical.  Reminds me of Alge Crumpler.

2. Ray Hamilton - Strongsville, OH (Iowa commit)
Catches the ball well in traffic.  Doesn't have great speed, but very shifty after the catch.

3. Brian Miller - Andover, MA (Boston College commit)
Good frame for adding weight to 6'4", 215 lbs.  Excellent feet and a very tough runner after the catch.

4. Jeff Heuerman - Naples, FL (Ohio State commit)
Very good size and body control.

5. Darien Bryant - Pickerington, OH
Small-ish tight end, but a very willing and fundamentally sound blocker.  Very good speed but needs to add weight.

6. Brandon Fulse - Fort Meade, FL
Large tight end (6'4", 247 lbs.) who's a powerful runner.  Not an extremely adept blocker despite size.

7. Jack Tabb - Red Bank, NJ
Solid but unspectacular all-around athlete.  Could also play outside linebacker.

7. Nick Vannett - Westerville, OH (Ohio State commit)
Good size and frame.  Average speed.  Seems a bit undisciplined and doesn't finish routes.

8. Frank Clark - Cleveland, OH
Large wide receiver/small tight end prospect.  Needs to add weight to 210 lb. frame.  Could also play outside linebacker.

9. Jerell Adams - Summerton, SC
Tall, rangy athlete with decent speed.  Serious developmental prospect who played quarterback and safety in high school.  Generally looks like one of those kids who's tall, long, and somewhat fast . . . but isn't really a great football player.

No video on which to judge: Taques Franklin, Drew Owens