Tyler Higbee NFL Draft 2016: Scouting Report, Grade for Rams Rookie

POSITIVES

Tyler Higbee began his career at wide receiver but quickly outgrew the position. Fortunately for NFL teams, he still runs like a wideout while having the frame to box out defenders.

The time spent snagging passes at receiver paid off for Higbee. He is an excellent hands catcher all over the field, making plays both in traffic and in space. The ball comes to his hands naturally, and Higbee does a good job securing the ball to get upfield.

With top-tier size and agility, Higbee can separate on 10- to 15-yard routes with ease. He's a nightmare matched up against NCAA linebackers who aren't able to balance power and speed in coverage. He has a strong upper body and hands that do well in congestion both before and after the catch.

When getting into his routes, Higbee shows the burst you want in a top-tier tight end. He'll chew up yardage and press defensive backs off his route with his straight-line speed. He's a smart route-runner who times his steps and turns to meet the ball. He'll bail out his quarterback with a big catch radius in traffic.

NEGATIVES

A knee sprain in October caused Higbee to miss time over the rest of the season and limited him when he was back on the field. A re-aggravation of the injury caused him to miss the Senior Bowl and be held out of running at the combine.

Higbee doesn't show much as a run-blocker and will need to prove he's willing to work there. He plays high in the run and pass game, making his chest an easy target for jamming linebackers and safeties at the line.

Added bulk and strength could go a long way in keeping Higbee relevant in the NFL. He has the natural hands and athleticism to be an early-impact pass-catcher at tight end.

COMBINE RESULTS

Height: 6'5 ¾"

Weight: 249 lbs.

40 Time: N/A

3-Cone: N/A

Short Shuttle: N/A

PRO COMPARISON: Greg Olsen, Carolina Panthers
FINAL GRADE: 6.40/9.00 (Round 2-3—Future Starter)