2025 NFL Draft: Strengths and weaknesses for the top TE prospects

The 2025 NFL Draft tight end class features a mix of high-upside playmakers, each with strengths that could make them franchise cornerstones but also weaknesses that could give teams pause.

With PFF’s latest big board providing updated rankings and the Mock Draft Simulator allowing fans to test different scenarios, the debate over this year’s top prospects is already heating up.

Here’s a breakdown of what each player brings to the table, along with the areas they’ll need to refine at the next level.

For the full ranking of draft prospects, along with their three-year player grades and position rankings, click here.

TE1. Tyler Warren, Penn State

Big board rank: 13

Strengths:

• Has the frame to play in-line, as a wingback and fullback
• Long arms are advantageous for catch radius and when blocking
• Hold up well versus power against most defensive ends
• Very strong player
• Not afraid of the physical aspects of the game
• Big-time production increase as a receiver in 2024

Weaknesses:

• A bit stiffer to change direction, which limits his route tree

TE2. Colston Loveland, Michigan

Big board rank: 31

Strengths:

• Very impressive athlete, even for a lighter weight tight end
• Natural pass catcher
• Crisp, explosive routes
• Has change-of-direction flexibility to run routes with multiple breaks
• Has the frame/length to block secondary players well; some linebackers

Weaknesses:

• Shows fundamentals as a blocker but lacks the true size to handle defensive ends
• Catch percentage could be higher
• Could be more creative after the catch

TE3. Gunnar Helm, Texas

Big board rank: 75

Strengths:

• Good core and grip strength to wall off defensive linemen as a blocker
• Balanced receiver after the catch

Weaknesses:

• Struggles against many powerful edge rushers
• Could use more “pop” as a blocker

TE4. Elijah Arroyo, Miami (FL)

Big board rank: 80

Strengths:

• Good all-around athlete for the position
• Has a good sense of urgency/effort in how he moves
• Plays with a chip on his shoulder
• Good physicality at the breakpoints of his routes
• Just one drop on 50 targets in 2024

Weaknesses:

• Will dip his head when loading up for bigger blocks
• Consistent false steps getting out of his stance
• Doesn't have NFL-level impact run-blocking strength
• Only one full season of starting reps
• Lacks leverage and technique to maintain blocks

TE5. Mason Taylor, LSU

Big board rank: 87

Strengths:

• Well-built, athletic frame
• Has the size and experience to play in-line as well as in the slot
• Light as a blocker but does have good hand placement and technique

Weaknesses:

• Lack of weight shows up when fighting in the trenches
• Slender build for an in-line player; might need to put on about 10 pounds