2014 Bucs Camp Preview: Tight Ends
LEADER OF THE PACK: Brandon Myers
Myers is the most experienced tight end on the Bucs roster right now. He comes to Tampa after spending his first 4 years in Oakland, and last year with the New York Giants. His strength is catching the football, averaging over 10 yards per catch the last two seasons. He is very good in the open field and a bit more athletic than some may think. Nobody is a lock to start right now, but experience is always an advantage.
ALL EYES ON: Austin Seferian-Jenkins
We haven't seen much of the 2nd-round pick from Washington this off-season. After reporting to rookie mini-camp in May, Seferian-Jenkins has been back in school finishing up his degree, not being able to practice with the team in OTAs and mandatory mini-camp. The Bucs are counting on him to be a big target in the middle of the field. He has tons of size, talent and potential. But he has a lot to catch up on.
X-FACTOR: Tim Wright
Wright was one of the bright spots from Tampa Bay's offense last year. After Luke Stocker went down before the season began, Wright took over and had an impressive rookie season, with 54 receptions for 571 yards and 5 touchdowns. A wide receiver at Rutgers, Wright has converted into a hybrid tight end that can be used in the slot. He could be used that way more often with a new offense being implemented in 2014.
CAMP OBJECTIVE: The All-Around Athlete
All of these tight ends have size, skill, and can catch the ball well. But that's not all that comes with the position. Blocking is critical. As much as we're expecting some unique looks in Jeff Tedford's offense, Lovie Smith has made it clear on the importance of running the football. With that said, the starting tight end might well be the one who can help move the line the best in the run game, in addition to their pass catching ability.
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