National Signing Day 2011: Jay Rome Vs. Nick O'Leary, Who's Top Tight End?

A college coach and really good friend of mine once told me, "Give me a super talented tight end and I'll be able to do anything I want with my offense."

The tight end position is really starting to have an effect on the offensive side of the game, and this year in recruiting there are two good ones we like.

Jay Rome and Nick O'Leary both have a chance to be special tight ends in college and will continue to carry the flag on tight ends revolutionizing football. They both have similar traits, as well as some differences between their skill sets.

We're going to examine both of them.

Who Is Jay Rome?

Commit: Undecided

Considering: Georgia, Alabama, Tennessee and Clemson

HT: 6'5" WT: 255 pounds

Rome is ranked by both Rivals and Scout as the fourth tight end on the board, and there is certainly an argument for him to be higher. He's been a Georgia lean since his recruitment started, and we expect the Valdosta (GA) tight end to make it official and join the Dawgs later on this evening.

Rome has the tools to be a prototypical pass-catching tight end who can be used flexed out wide or in the slot as well. He has a very quick get-off out of his stance, great speed and is a solid route runner.

He's a dynamic athlete with long arms, which increases his catch radius and strike zone. He runs solid routes and can get out of his breaks well for a big man.

Rome's Knocks

While Rome is a big tight end with long arms, he doesn't have the strength to be a dominant run blocker right now, especially in his upper body. He stalls in his run blocks and has problems sealing edges against strong defensive ends.

He lacks the strength to latch and sustain in the run game. That's probably the only true knock on Rome's game. Some say he can disappear for stretches at times, but sometimes when you're that good of a pass catcher, defenses take you away from the quarterback's reads by double and triple-teaming you.

Who Is Nick O'Leary?

Commit: Undecided

Considering: Florida State, Alabama, Miami, LSU and Wisconsin

HT: 6'4" WT: 235 pounds

O'Leary is the grandson of PGA legend Jack Nicklaus and a tight end prospect out of Dwyer High School in Florida. He's considering an array of schools, yet Florida State seems to be the favorite.

O'Leary has the makings of a great tight end/H-back-type player. He can flex out and be a threat in the passing game and equally move in-line and dominate as a blocker in the run game. He's pretty strong on his feet, runs great routes and has very soft hands.

He can pluck balls away from his frame and also catch in a crowd. He's terrific after the catch, as he turns into a battering ram with the ball in his hands.

O'Leary's Knocks

Well, if you were to nitpick at O'Leary, you could start with the fact that he's only (only?) around 6'4" or so and not an inch or two bigger. However, that is not really an issue in our book.

O'Leary is a very emotional and intense player who thrives on being physical. Sometimes he gets too pumped up and intense, and it can be a detriment to his game and team sometimes. He has a tremendous skill set, yet he must learn to harness his emotions and intensity level in college.

Similarities of Rome and O'Leary

Both players have the potential to become well-rounded and complete tight ends. They both are dynamic pass catchers who can be a nightmare problem for defenses.

They're too quick underneath for outside linebackers and big for safeties in coverage. They both have great soft hands and a large strike zone.

Also, both can be used as flex or move-type tight ends and stretch the middle of the field for an offense.

Differences Between Rome and O'Leary

Rome is a bit bigger at 6'6" and 255 pounds compared to O'Leary's 6'4", 235-pound frame. Rome also has more length to his overall physique with incredibly long arms.

O'Leary is stronger at the point of attack and a better blocker. He could easily be used as an H-back/fullback type in an offense that requires such a player, yet still factor in the passing game.

They both have solid speed and quickness compared to one another, but the main difference is O'Leary is stronger and a better blocker at this point.

Top Tight End Award Goes To...

This is a tough choice, but the nod goes to Rome. He's bigger, has longer arms, his speed and hands are just as a good as O'Leary's and he may be a better overall athlete.

While Rome isn't the strongest tight end in country and will need work on his blocking, with a college strength program and added bulk, he has the potential to become one of the best college tight ends in the country. He compares to a Martellus Bennett.