Below is the PFF draft profile for South Carolina TE Jerell Adams, which incorporates PFF’s college grades and scouting intel from our team of analysts. To see all of PFF’s 2016 scouting reports, click here.
Position fit:
In-line tight end
Stat to know:
Highest run-blocking grade among tight ends in the Power-5
Combine stats:
Height: 6-5
Weight: 247
Arm length: 34 ⅜”
Hand size: 9 ¾”
40-yard dash: 4.64 seconds
Vertical jump: 32.5”
Broad jump: 9-9
3-cone drill: 7.05
20-yard shuttle: 4.31
60-yard shuttle: 11.52
What he does best:
–Impressive effort and hands as a run-blocker. One of only tight ends at the top of this class you’d feel comfortable blocking defensive ends routinely. Hits his target zone, latches on, and doesn’t let go (although that might lead to some holds).
–Above-average straight-line speed. Can create space up the seam against linebackers on gos and posts
–Body control is impressive. Has a large catch radius and seems more sure handed when forced to adjust to a ball than ones thrown perfectly to his chest
–Stout lower half. Defensive backs bounce off when they contact him at hip level. Broke 10 tackles on only 28 catches, tied for most in the class.
Biggest concern:
–Frustrating drops. Five on 33 catchable passes in 2015. Too often catches with his body instead of plucking it out of the air with his hands. Could have issues in traffic at the next level.
–Very limited receiving production (albeit in a poor passing offense). +1.0 receiving grade and 749 yards over past two seasons.
–Slight build compared to most successful blocking tight ends in the NFL. Could benefit from even more mass on his frame.
Player comparison:
Ben Watson, Baltimore Ravens. Both are plus athletes who could be either No. 1 or No. 2 tight ends. They aren’t necessarily receivers you’d feature in your offense, but both hold their own in that category.
Bottom line:
Adams has starter-level receiving traits with the added bonus of being a capable blocker. That’s not as valuable as it once was, but he’ll still be coveted by certain teams.
© 2024 PFF - all rights reserved.