2017 NFL Draft Profile: Tight End Jake Butt

In this 2017 NFL Draft profile, we look at the strengths and weaknesses of tight end Jake Butt out of Michigan University.

Butt is considered a top tight end in the 2017 NFL Draft from what NFL experts are saying. Butt has an NFL-ready skill set and had strong production that would help him improve his draft stock. With not many standout tight ends, it will likely boost his draft pick selection. Butt might not stand out because of the injury he sustained in his final game but the potential is there for a bright future.

For how big and tall Butt is, he resembles Zach Miller. He enters the draft at 6’6″ inches tall and weighs in at 250 pounds. For how productive Miller runs his routes, Butt is the same as Miller was, able to pass protect and is able to help block when he is needed to.

STRENGTHS

Henry is able to help out any organization with the help of run blocking in making it successful. An interesting fact is that he had doubled the number in his production each season. He was able to secure tough throws and take the big hits that came his way.

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In the open field after the catch, he was very dangerous and tough with the abilities he possesses. He’s always willing to do whatever it takes to improve his game.

Butt was a very reliable third down target which NFL teams could look to add. He was very effective in intermediate work adjusting his routes according to what he saw from opposing defenses.

WEAKNESSES

He is average in his athleticism and is just a one-speed runner that doesn’t have many gears. He was penalized for holding calls most of the time.

Butt allows outside linebackers to set strong edges against him and make him very frustrated. He is slow getting off the line and he breaks into his routes which are a frustrating thing to watch.

If he continues to grab in crazy pass protection, it will lead to him being heavily penalized in the NFL. He struggles to position his body correctly as a run and pass blocker. He doesn’t like the weight and body size so you wonder why he is very slow and average.

VIDEO HIGHLIGHTS

MUST READ: Quarterback DeShone Kizer 2017 NFL Draft Profile

DRAFT DAY PREDICTION

Butt will likely be drafted in the 2nd Round as an early to mid round (34th-52nd) pick in this draft. Butt seems like he has the potential to be an excellent player but he will need to fix areas of his game in order to be a successful tight end. If he is coached the correct way and is put in the correct offensive scheme, he should be able to have an excellent career.