Yesterday we saw the running backs, offensive lineman and special teamers all take the field. Today, the wide receivers, quarterbacks and tight ends will show what they have to offer. With a vast amount of speculation on what the 49ers will do at all three of these positions, I come to you with a scouting report on both the highly-touted and the underrated prospects that will be showcasing their skills today, along with a list of other names you should be looking out for. We'll finish things out with tight ends.
How to watch
2016 NFL Combine
Location: Indianapolis, IN | Lucas Oil Stadium
Time: 6:00 AM - 1:00 PM PT
Channel: NFL Network
Live Stream: NFL Now
Nick Vannett, TE, Ohio State - 6'6", 260 lbs. *TE15
Strengths: Many people will argue that Vannett is not an elite tight end on account of his low production at Ohio State, but he has definitely presented himself (at least on film) as someone who has many valuable translatable NFL traits. While at Ohio State, Vannett was one of their most versatile players lining up all over the field in many different formations. Standing at 6-foot-6 the former Buckeye showcases soft hands and the increduble ability to pass and run block extremely effectively. His athleticism is very impressive considering his massive frame, which is why he may be used in many different positions at the next level. The mismatches Vannett can create with his speed and then be able to out-body a defender may be of great worth in the NFL.
Weaknesses: Vannett is one of the few well-versed tight ends in the draft, his negatives hold him down in no such way. Despite being a five-year senior at OSU, and blocking being his bread and butter at the next level, he could improve his technique, specifically keeping his hands inside of the defenders shoulders.
Draft Projection: 3rd
Hunter Henry, TE, Arkansas - 6'6", 250 lbs. *TE08
Strengths: As of late, teams are willing to pay top dollar for a dual-threat tight end. The 6-foot-6 junior has a variety of things to like about him. For starters, he showcases outstanding size, extremely soft hands, and polished routes. Henry also presents great acceleration off of the line of scrimmage, the ability to secure passes through traffic, and some of the best blocking I have seen from a tight end.
Weaknesses: Despite looking like the best tight end we have seen in the past two years, Henry does have a couple knocks on him. The first being allowing the ball to reach his chest instead of receiving it with his hands. Although being a stout blocker for the most part, he finds trouble with quicker edge rushers.
Draft Projection: 2nd
Other notable tight ends
Stephen Anderson, TE, California *TE02
Austin Hooper, TE, Stanford *TE10
Bryce Williams, TE, Eastern Carolina *TE16