One of the things I really appreciate regarding the network of NFL folks I’ve built is that plenty of these guys aren’t afraid to tell me what they think I got right about a player - my tackle synopsis got a bunch of thumbs up, if you will - but also let me hear it when they think I’ve missed the mark. And when it came to the tight end position, there was some definite pushback.
One scout questioned ranking Eli Stowers being in Tier 2, explaining that his organization doesn’t consider Stowers a tight end, even though he’s officially listed as one (I don't see him as one either). The scout described him as a “package only” player, meaning his team assigns him to a limited set of plays and doesn’t expect him to participate in the full range of responsibilities typical of the position at this point in his development.
An assistant coach I know well strongly disagreed with my ranking of Notre Dame’s Eli Raridon, texting, “At worst, he’s the third-best tight end in the class.” I responded by pointing out Raridon’s two ACL tears and limited production. The coach shot back: “If you can’t find a way to make this kid part of your offense and get more out of him, you shouldn’t be coaching offense.” This reflects the split in how coaches and evaluators prioritize potential versus past availability and production.
After taking a moment, I replied, "Can I quote that text?" "Absolutely, jackass," came the response.
That was followed by a GIF of someone laughing, which, admittedly, I can sometimes relate to.
I went back and watched some more Raridon and will admit he