Green Bay Packers 2015 NFL Draft: Breaking down the tight end prospects

Tier Three

8. Jesse James, Penn State (6-7, 261)
9. Ben Koyack, Notre Dame (6-5, 255)
10. Wes Saxton, South Alabama (6-3, 248)
11. Nick O’Leary, Florida State (6-2, 252)
12. James O’Shaughnessey, Illinois State (6-4, 245)
13. E.J. Bibbs, Iowa State (6-2, 258)
14. Randall Telfer, USC (6-4, 250)

The Skinny: The middle rounds have some decent tight end prospects who could start in the NFL with some time to develop.

Leading this group are two physically imposing prospects, James and Koyack.

James is a towering 6-foot-7 with long arms and some leaping ability (37.5-inch vertical). His game is still very raw, but his physical traits could get him drafted early on day three.

He’s a big target with the speed (4.71) to stretch the field. He still needs to improve as a route runner, however.

Notre Dame Fighting Irish tight end Ben Koyack (18). Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

Koyack is a bit more polished, but he doesn’t have the high ceiling that James does. Regardless, Koyack is a solid player who will make a living in the NFL as a physical in-line tight end. He’s an excellent run blocker who can also work the middle of the field as a receiver.

Saxton and O’Shaughnessey are both athletic receiving tight tends flying under the radar who have the speed to stretch the seam.

O’Shaughnessey is coming off a productive senior season at Illinois State where he recorded 29 receptions for 544 yards and nine touchdowns.

Saxton may not have had the same production in college as O’Shaughnessey, but he’s one of the most athletic prospects at the position in this draft.

He may sneak into the third or fourth round because he offers intriguing upside, but his game remains unpolished and he’ll need some time to develop at the next level.

O’Leary and Bibbs were both very productive tight ends in college, but they’re both also very limited as athletes and may not translate well to the NFL. O’Leary seems to be a better fit as a fullback at the next level.

Telfer is a tough, physical blocker who would be a solid mid-round pick.

Next: Tier Four