2014 NFL Draft: Ten Prospects the Packers Could Target on Day Two

Notre Dame Fighting Irish tight end Troy Niklas (85) catches a pass for a first down in front of Navy Midshipmen linebacker Cody Peterson (53). Matt Cashore-USA TODAY Sports

Troy Niklas – Tight End, Notre Dame, 6-6, 270 (4.84)

Niklas may be the best tight end prospect that you’ve heard very little about. While Eric Ebron, Jace Amaro, and Austin Seferian-Jenkins headline a talented tight end class, Niklas may be the most well-balanced of the bunch.

As a a converted linebacker, Niklas is a physical force at tight end. He excels as a run blocker. Something Green Bay has been lacking from the position since Andrew Quarless’ superb 2010 season. Niklas knows how to play with good leverage and harass defenders. After all, he used to be one.

Niklas also provides a big target over the middle of the field and in the red zone in the passing game. He finished third on his team in receiving in 2013 with 32 receptions for 498 yards and five touchdowns. He has the athleticism and length to go up at get the ball over defenders, and he’s a tough player that doesn’t shy away from contact and can catch the ball well in traffic.

Niklas would be a great find on day two of the draft for a team like Green Bay. The Packers could continue building on their success in the running game and add another receiving option that could work the middle of the field with Jermichael Finley’s return in question.