2017 NFL Draft Profile: Tight End Gerald Everett

Tight end Gerald Everett is one of the most intriguing prospects in the 2017 NFL Draft.

If tight end Gerald Everett out of South Alabama is drafted, he could join the list of basketball players, like Antonio Gates and Tony Gonzalez, who transition from the hardcourt to the gridiron and made a name for themselves.

He played only one year of high school football, but he gave up his sneakers for cleats.  Everett decided to go to junior college to prove he could handle the transition, and after one season, he was rewarded by the University of Alabama-Birmingham.

After UAB cut its football program he found his way to the University of South Alabama, where he continued his growth.  He finished his college career with 90 catches for 1292 yards (14.4 yards per reception) and 12 touchdowns.

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STRENGTHS

Everett is very athletic, and NFL safeties should be aware of his ability to blow by them if they wait too long for him to break off his route.  He also doesn’t fear going over the middle and will take on coverage linebackers.

He accelerates off of his plant foot quickly when breaking off routes and will create separation.  Everett also has a wide radius and soft hands.  He will also break attempts at arm tackles with ease.

When it comes to his blocking ability, it is even better than his ability to catch the ball.  He will maintain his engagement much longer than most tight ends, and that gives runners more space to work with.

WEAKNESSES

His lack of experience shows in his route running.  Everett seems to lack the effort like he shows in his blocking.  Safeties will be able to time his routes better at the next level.

Everett could use some footwork help on double moves.  Everett also slows down when he goes deep, and that could lead to overthrows and interceptions.

VIDEO HIGHLIGHTS

MUST READ: Quarterback Mitch Trubisky 2017 NFL Draft Profile

DRAFT DAY PREDICTION

As a result of both his willingness and ability to block, he might get a second-day rating on some teams’ boards.  His poor route running could lead to a lower grade, but teams will look at him as a raw talent that, with NFL coaching, could get better. When you put all the pieces together he’s probably a second- or third-round selection in this year’s draft.