PFF scouting report: George Kittle, TE, Iowa

Name: George Kittle

School: Iowa

Position fit: In-line or move tight end

Stats to know: Has only allowed a single quarterback pressure over the last two seasons combined. Earned the second-highest run blocking grade (79.6) in 2016 among the TE draft class.

What he does best:

Transitioned from a wide receiver/safety in high school to becoming one of the top blocking tight ends in the nation.
Attacks blocking assignments with an obvious, concentrated gameplan comprising excellent footwork, balance, and leverage.
Excellent blocking on the move, particularly on the backside of zone plays
Iowa utilizes a run-first offense, but Kittle still produced the seventh-highest yards per route run average (1.91) over the last two years from the TE draft class.
Quickness and speed make him a versatile receiving threat and capable of separating from linebackers.
Frequently drives defenders on skates well away from the play with exceptional technique.
Extensive footage available displaying his ability to dominate blocking defenders despite average size — listed at 235 pounds during his senior season.
Averaged 7.1 yards after the catch per reception over the last three years.

Biggest concern:

Durability concerns — injuries forced him to miss seven games over the last two seasons.
While his technique is well-above average, size may limit his ability to block in-line at the next level. May fit best as a No. 2 tight end and receiving mismatch.
Minimal special-teams experience.

Player comparison: Chris Cooley, Washington Redskins

Cooley is bigger than Kittle, but he could line up in multiple spots including H-back or in the slot. Kittle will likely play in a similar role, creating passing game mismatches while perhaps even providing more in the run game than Cooley.

Bottom line: Kittle has the athleticism to be a receiving mismatch at the next level though it’s his blocking that makes him a perfect fit as a No. 2 tight end capable of playing in a “move” role. He can separate from linebackers and safeties, whether attached to the formation or in the slot, and while he’ll likely never be a dominant in-line run blocker, Kittle projects as a useful matchup option in a two-tight end offense.