We are approaching the stretch run in college football. With an eye on the 2017 NFL Draft, dynasty and devy owners are salivating over the draft-eligible running backs. The strength of the tight end class should excite owners just as much. This week’s watch list highlights the top draft eligible tight ends. Just missing my cut are Virginia Tech’s Bucky Hodges and Clemson’s Jordan Leggett. CBS Sports draft coverage has 5 tight ends projected as 1st or 2nd round NFL Draft picks.
Mississippi State at Alabama
Senior O.J. Howard surprised many by returning to school in 2016. While Howard’s season has been quiet, his 23 catches for 275 yards and 2 touchdowns is not too far off his pace from 2015 (38-602-2). The disappointment stems mostly from expecting Howard to dominate the passing game this year. While this has not happened, the passing game has struggled under freshman quarterback Jalen Hurts. At 6’6″ 251lbs, Howard has the size and the receiving ability to be a difference-making tight end at the NFL level.
Michigan at Iowa
Senior Jake Butt is the best all-around tight end in this class to me. At 6’5″ 250 lbs, he has the size to block and create matchup problems for opposing defenses. While I do not see Butt as a top-3 fantasy tight end, I compare him to Jason Witten. Butt is 2nd on the Wolverines with 34 catches for 421 yards and 4 touchdowns.
Ole Miss at Texas A&M
While O.J. Howard has disappointed, Evan Engram has not. Engram is leading Ole Miss in all major receiving categories with 53 catches, 775 yards and 7 touchdowns on the season. Though Engram compares to a tight end like Jordan Reed, at 6’3″ 227 lbs, his size is a concern.
