- Dalton Kincaid shouldn't be forgotten in loaded tight end class: The Utah product is one of this draft class' highest-graded pass-catchers, making him someone who can contribute to an NFL passing game from Day 1.
- Tank Bigsby could be a steal: The Auburn running back didn't register a second-strait 1,000-yard season; nonetheless, he was arguably even more impressive from an NFL draft standpoint.
Estimated reading time: 5 minutes
As fan bases all around the country come to terms that it is officially draft season for them and their favorite franchise, we wanted to expand their draft knowledge. Here we list some prospects in the 2023 draft class who might not be super high on draft boards right now, but ones who could become some of your favorites throughout the draft process – and maybe even be some late risers over the next few months.
TE Dalton Kincaid, Utah
- Overall grade: 91.1
- Receiving grade: 92.0
- Run blocking grade: 61.0
- Pass blocking grade: 57.2
- Receptions: 66
- Receiving Yards: 850
- Contested catch percentage: 52.9%
- Slot: 56.2%
One player who has impressed on tape this year is Kincaid. The 6-foot-4, 240-pound tight end was a zero-star recruit from Las Vegas coming out of high school after mostly playing in a Wing T offense as a blocker who couldn’t show off his receiving skills. That forced him to start his college football career at the University of San Diego in the FCS from 2018-19 before transferring to Utah.
With an elite 92.0 receiving grade this past season, he’s proven to be a very natural athlete who has notable long speed, good change-of-direction ability and impressive body control. He’s also a natural hands catcher who can make the most of his catch radius. He’s not an imposing blocker, as his technique needs work to be a true inline player. Nonetheless, his ability to contribute in the passing game gives his stock plenty of value in this draft class.
RB Tank Bigsby, Auburn
- Overall grade: 83.5
- Rushing grade: 90.5
- Receiving grade: 54.9
- Rushing yards: 976/740 after contact
- Touchdowns: 10
- Missed tackles forced: 60 (0.34 per carry)
- Explosive runs: 27
Bigsby was one of many talented backs who had some hype headed into the year. He rushed for over 1,000 yards in 2021, and though he didn’t hit the 1,000-yard mark in 2022, it may have been his best season yet. The 6-foot, 210-pound back is a pleasant blend of speed, size and strength. He consistently shows very good one-cut ability, changing direction and accelerating very quickly, especially behind zone-blocking concepts. He might not have rare top speed, but he's fast enough to be effective in the NFL. His improved contact balance this year was especially impressive. With good vision to tie all those attributes together, expect him to be one of this class' most effective backs.
I enjoyed Tank Bigsby’s film! A talented scheme versatile running back.
He brings toughness, physicality, and big play potential. #DamesDudes pic.twitter.com/bDzAgKX9UQ
— Full-Time Dame 💰 (@DP_NFL) January 16, 2023
© 2024 PFF - all rights reserved.