Thomas Duarte NFL Draft 2016: Scouting Report, Grade for Dolphins Rookie

POSITIVES

Playing wide receiver at UCLA, Thomas Duarte projects best to a move tight end in the NFL with his size and the premise that a Jordan Reed-type of slot role would fit him best.

When viewed as a tight end, Duarte's athleticism is a strength, where it would be a weakness if he were thought of as a wide receiver. He has the straight-line speed to get on defenders quickly and can build up to pull away from cornerbacks and safeties.

Duarte plays the ball well in traffic and can make contested catches. When the ball is in his hands, he hits another gear and can run away from tacklers. He's effective at manipulating defenders and getting them to take false steps, which he uses to create separation.

Duarte is a willing blocker in the run game. He can execute stalk blocks and hold up cornerbacks on the edge of the play.

NEGATIVES

Duarte has no experience at tight end and is purely a project at a new—albeit similar—position. He was able to succeed in a unique role at UCLA but will not have a seamless transition to the NFL.

With inconsistent hands, Duarte dropped four passes on 86 targets, according to College Football Focus. The drops show up when Duarte is in danger of being banged up, which is exactly where he'll be playing as a move tight end.

An underdeveloped route-runner, Duarte must work to become more aware of his timing and his placement when cutting to the middle of the field. When he's no longer viewed as a threat to go deep, his ability to soften up his route and find space underneath will disappear.

COMBINE RESULTS

Height: 6'2 ⅛"

Weight: 231 lbs.

40 Time: 4.72s

3-Cone: 6.97s

Short Shuttle: 4.24s

PRO COMPARISON: Jordan Reed, Washington
FINAL GRADE: 5.90/9.00 (Round 4—Rotational Player)