(04-14-2023, 02:03 PM)jaglou53 Wrote:

(04-14-2023, 12:51 PM)Caldrac Wrote: I am with you on this. Some reputable analysts believe there's going to be at least three tight ends drafted on the opening night though. Tony Pauline in particular thinks Kincaid could go as early as 15, followed by Mayer to LA not too far in front of us and then I think he has Musgrave going at some point. 

I wouldn't mind moving up to get him. I just think it's a position of concern because of Engram's situation and not having anybody really worth a damn behind him to help elevate the offense for Lawrence. This is still a pretty damn deep TE class and I don't think you have to take a guy in RD1 or RD2 to land a viable receiving threat. 


I am with you on this as well. He checks off every box that Baalke covets. Tall, fast, physical and lengthy arm wise. Add in the fact that he's one hell of a blocker, shows crazy catch radius ability and honestly fits a need, whether we like it or not, Engram is all we really have at the moment. 

Maybe it's smoke and mirrors. We all know Baalke doesn't mind taking Bulldogs. He took Campbell. He took Walker. Think he blew it passing up on Jamaree Salyer last year though. Washington should be on our radar though. If it's not him early? I would have to think they're looking at guys like Kuntz, Kraft, Schoonmaker, Mallory and possibly even Latu.

With regard to the 4 Tight Ends who should be drafted prior to the end of Round 2, I rate them in this order:

1. Kincaid: Clearly not the "complete" tight end due to blocking, but he'd be a weapon for Trevor. I see no way he makes it out of Round 1, but if he does I'd definitely consider trading up for him.

2. Mayer: Can do it all as a receiver and blocker. Just not the weapon Kincaid will become.

3. Washington: I'm not as high on him as most. Love his blocking, but his resume as a receiver is nothing special. Despite Brockers' presence, just have to wonder why he wasn't targeted more. 
                      Might take him in Round 2, if available, but would likely prefer Cody Mauch, Clark Phillips or a pass rusher who may drop such as Uzomah or White.

4. Musgrave: Rated last due to limited number of snaps. If he stays healthy, Musgrave could be the best of this group. Just not willing to risk it.


One name not mentioned is Sam LaPorta. If he makes it out of round 2, this is another guy I might consider moving up for. He has a similar style to Engram, but could replace him in 2024 as number 1 receiving Tight End if Engram is not re-signed. His run after the catch ability is as good as anyone from this class of tight ends.

LaPorta is honestly my favorite TE of this class. Followed by Mallory. For the simple fact that they were a lot more consistent across the board throughout their careers and because of the well roundedness to their game for the position. LaPorta is a tackle breaking machine. Probably my favorite aspect to him. 

LaPorta's highlights reminded me a lot of what we did with Engram last year. A lot of move stuff, misdirection stuff, quick stuff out in the open to let him break tackles or make RAC plays. Mallory is about the same type of player. 

Watching Kincaid's highlights though? He's got that vertical and down the seam game for sure. Very special athlete for the position. Really does remind me of Goedert and Ertz. Just a matter of whether or not you trust the upside and the durability for him to thrive in the NFL.

His ability to make contested catches and track the football is impressive for a guy with limited football experience. He's a basketball player from what I understand more than anything. 

I wouldn't hate the pick. Simply because of the coach we have. I know he'll figure out a way to capitalize on an athlete like Kincaid with Engram out there for one more year.

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