:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/32809625/130768696.0.jpg)
The Arizona Cardinals drafted Notre Dame TE Troy Niklas in the second round. He is tall and big -- almost 6-7 and 270 pounds. He used to be a linebacker. He has played tight end only a couple of years.
What are some of the things that have been said about him?
SB Nation's Matthew Fairburn had him as the draft's fourth best TE, but a guy that rose quickly. "His size and body control are impressive down the field," he wrote. "The top four tight ends all have the potential to be impact players."
NFL Network's Mike Mayock said on the draft broadcast that Niklas "will be the best blocking tight end if he wants to be." Mayock also said that Niklas is outstanding in the short and intermediate game.
General manager Steve Keim, after drafting him, said, "the upside is really scary."
Head coach Bruce Arians said, "First and foremost he can handle the line of scrimmage. But he's more than just a blocking tight end."
His scouting profile page for CBS Sports says this: "With only one full season as a starter, Niklas was a surprise early entrant into the 2014 draft. His imposing frame and underrated athleticism, however, scream upside. While still a bit inconsistent as a receiver, Niklas also shows off the ability to extend and pluck tough passes outside of his frame."
Walter Football: "Niklas has some athletic ability and quickness to go along with a huge frame. He is a good blocker, too."
Bleacher Report's Matt Miller: "Niklas is a player I do like, and I see him as a starter early in his NFL career, but he's very slow. That lack of burst and stiffness in space can be an issue. Sure, he can block and box out defenders, and there's a ton of value in that. But most teams prefer tight ends with the speed to make plays after the catch. Niklas is the kind of guy you would have drafted late first round 10 years ago but is more of a third-rounder in today's league."
What do you think?
