NFL Draft Scouting Report: Clive Walford

Nov 15, 2014; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; Miami Hurricanes tight end Clive Walford (46) eludes Florida State Seminoles linebacker Terrance Smith (24) for a touchdown during the second quarter at Sun Life Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports

Scouts’ Take

Dane Brugler, Rob Rang and Dan Stephens of CBSSports.com’s take was: Impressive acceleration of the line of scrimmage to challenge down the seam. Quick, athletic receiver with ability to catch the ball in stride and create mismatches with his athleticism. Generally reliable hands with ability to climb the ladder and utilize his large catch radius that scouts seek at his position.

Lean lower body. Has struggled at times with mental mistakes over his career. Struggles as a blocker and was plagued by drops in the past. In our view, Walford’s athletic traits and versatility could make him the first senior tight end off the board.

NFL.com’s Lance Zlerlein’s take was: Becoming very reliable as a blocker. Is tough enough and physical enough to be play-side blocking tight end on zone runs. Will drive smaller outside linebackers off the line in the run game. Has the typical build and enough quickness to threaten the seam. Can make contested catches. Has run-after-catch ability. At home in physical match-up. Has long arms and big hands.

Focus drops were a big problem from 2012-2013. Needs work sinking his hips into breaks. Will round off routes and let defender break on a pass. Scouts say his play speed has been inconsistent and there are questions about what his timed speed will be. Not the same factor in run-blocking when asked to play move-tight-end-role. A combo tight end that can help a team in the running game and in the air.

Next: My Take