Originally Posted by :
The former all-state pick from Massachusetts played quarterback his junior year at Leominster High School. He started once in 12 appearances as a sophomore (20 receptions, 234 yards, 11.7 average, one touchdown) and also contributed in 13 games as a reserve (five receptions, 37 yards, two touchdowns) his first year in Durham. Gray stepped into the NFL draft spotlight as a junior, garnering second-team All-ACC honors by leading the Blue Devils in receptions and finishing among the top FBS tight ends with 51 catches for 392 yards (7.7 per) and three scores. The 2020 team captain played in 10 games with nine starts as a senior (29 receptions, 285 yards, 9.8 average, two touchdowns), becoming the school's all-time leading receiver at tight end. He accepted an invitation to the Senior Bowl. -- by Chad Reuter
Overview
Gray understands leverage and how to create some tilt in coverage but doesn't have play speed or separation burst to do enough with it. While he's not going to have the size or strength to block defenders when firing off the ball, he has enough athleticism and grit to offer some assistance as a move blocker from the slot or wing position. He has late-round potential and could find a team fit as a TE3/4. Strengths
Team captain.
Helps out in pass protection with decent mirror and technique.
Will stick and sustain as a slot blocker.
Reads the track properly when asked to lead block.
Slick footwork and leverage in his routes.
Ability to run more complex routes underneath.
Spins open suddenly in space against zone.
Sharp angles out of his turns.
Adjustment and focus to bring the throw in.
Weaknesses
Just nine yards per reception during career.
Thin through waist and hips with lean lower body.
Lacks threatening vertical push off the line.
Moves well but doesn't separate much.
Might not have ability to attack the seam.
Lacks agility on the move when working at the second level.
Gets overtaken by force at point of attack as blocker.
Originally Posted by Kiimosabi:
Travis Kelce is nearly two inches taller and 20 pounds heavier they aren't that comparable.
As a second TE he'll find openings I think. He's not a Kelce replacement down the line, he's complimentary
Agreed.
He's kind of an H-Back type. I mean, I guess it'll be okay and give them another complementary weapon. I just don't especially feel too enamored with the pick. I'm trusting Reid on this one but until I see the product on the fiel I'm not getting excited about it. [Reply]
Originally Posted by BigCatDaddy:
How has the name Kris Wilson not appeared in this thread?
Hahaha omfg. I haven't thought about that name in a while. How he managed to carve out an 8-year career is beyond me. I hope this kid is better but he absolutely is a reminder of Wilson. [Reply]
Didn't know his name before the draft, but he's my favorite pick!
Awesome RedZone target considering Hill, Kelce, and CEH will already have defenses spread thin. This guy has great route-running, and some fast-twitch suddenness I didn't expect to see in his tape. He's comfortable out of the slot as well which is a big plus! Even out of the backfield as a FB! Pretty sure Mahomes can't get this guy the rock! [Reply]
Originally Posted by Couch-Potato:
How much bigger is a TE supposed to be than 6'4 240? Honestly not sure, confident he can put on 20 lbs post college if required.
He measured 6'3" at his pro day. Ideally you like to see 6'5". That said, if he can become an Evan Engram type, then you have a pretty solid player on your hands. [Reply]
Originally Posted by kccrow:
He measured 6'3" at his pro day. Ideally you like to see 6'5". That said, if he can become an Evan Engram type, then you have a pretty solid player on your hands.
If he becomes an Evan Engram, I'm damn happy. [Reply]
