Dallas Cowboys Draft: 10 Tight End Prospects and Their Fit
Tommy Sweeney, Boston College
What’s Good: Route running, Blocking
What Ain’t Good: Athleticism, Pad Height
The last tight end in this article is none other than a Boston College Eagle. Sweeney is built like a run blocker and that was exactly what he did in the BC “up tempo pro style” offense. With a running back like AJ Dillon, why wouldn’t you want to give the ball to him at every opportunity?
Sweeney is 6’4″ and 251 pounds. That is the same as another tight end in this article, but unlike said tight end, Sweeney isn’t built lean. He possess some thunder thighs and can hold his stance when forced to run block. The minor issue with his leg strength is he stands up straight and blocks his defender. Kindly put, he doesn’t always win the battle.
As a pass catcher, he has consistent production for the three years catching at least 26 passes the last three seasons according to Sports Reference. Unfortunately, he could’ve benefited from significantly better quarterback play. I mentioned he isn’t the best athlete and with good reason.
When he runs routes, he can separate using his physicality or with his better than average change of direction ability. If the quarterback doesn’t react instantly to his break in coverage the defender is able to close the gap. If the quarterback throws it behind him, it’s almost a guaranteed interception.
This was a recurring theme with the Boston College quarterback play. While this is more of a quarterback issue, it is noteworthy that defenders are faster in the NFL. If he has a hard time maintaining separation in college, it will be harder in the NFL.
Granted QB’s are better at the next level so Sweeney could almost instant benefit from that, but the athleticism is a concerning aspect to Sweeney’s game.
Next. 10 Offensive Tackles and Their Fit. dark
So with that, I conclude this article on tight ends with two more Thursdays until the draft day festivities begin. Next week I’ll do my best analyzing the wide receiver class. Drop a comment below if you want me to cover a specific receiver.