2016 NFL Draft Profile: TE Hunter Henry

In this 2016 NFL Draft profile, we look at the strengths and weaknesses of tight end Hunter Henry out of Arkansas University.

Henry is considered a top tight end in this year’s draft from every analyst out there. Hunter has an NFL-ready skill set and has strong production that would appear to do well for him in the draft. With not many standout tight ends, it will likely boost his stock in the draft. The only problem with Henry is that he doesn’t seem to standout with many teams.

For how big and tall Henry is, he reminds many of tight end Rob Gronkowski. He enters the draft at 6-foot-5 inches tall and weights in at 253 pounds. For how well Gronkowski runs his routes, Henry is the same. He is able to get himself open in man coverage despite not being a ideal athlete.

Nov 22, 2014; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks tight end Hunter Henry (84) runs after a catch in the first half against the Ole Miss Rebels at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Nelson Chenault-USA TODAY Sports

STRENGTHS

Henry is able to help out any organization with helping their run game become a success. What was an interesting statistic is that he had no dropped passes last season. He was able to secure contested catches and big hits on him didn’t scare him away from doing what he needs to do.

He is too talented to be covered by most linebackers and cornerbacks. He is able to run certain routes and has no reason to leave the field.

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After every catch he is very dangerous with his toughness and agility.

He is a very reliable third down target which many NFL teams are missing. He is able to lineup in the slot effectively.

He is a high effort kind of blocker with the hustle to get downfield and works through the whistle.

WEAKNESSES

Henry can get a little grabby as a run blocker and was penalized for holding calls in 2015.

Henry is upright into his breaks with rounded turns over sharp cuts. He has a huge problem in adjusting his routes when he is in traffic. He is overmatched at the point of attack, which leads him to struggle to sustain and control his blocks.

For the way Henry was grabbing in wild pass protection, it will lead to him being penalized in the NFL. He struggles to establish his body position as a blocker and ends up going with the defender. He lacks ideal bulk and muscle tone for the position and is still growing into his body. He is not a reliable inline blocker at this point of his game.

VIDEO HIGHLIGHTS

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DRAFT DAY PREDICTION

Henry will likely be drafted in the 2nd round as an early to mid round (33rd-42nd) pick in this year’s draft. Henry seems like he has the potential to be a very good player but he will need to fix some areas of his game in order to be a successful tight end. If he is able to be developed over time, he should be capable of having a very productive career in the NFL.