2016 NFL Draft: Western Kentucky’s Tyler Higbee Scouting Report

Nov 27, 2015; Bowling Green, KY, USA; Western Kentucky Hilltoppers tight end Tyler Higbee (82) catches a pass to score a touchdown in front of Marshall Thundering Herd safety Taj Letman (17) during the first half at Houchens Industries-L.T. Smith Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joshua Lindsey-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 27, 2015; Bowling Green, KY, USA; Western Kentucky Hilltoppers tight end Tyler Higbee (82) catches a pass to score a touchdown in front of Marshall Thundering Herd safety Taj Letman (17) during the first half at Houchens Industries-L.T. Smith Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joshua Lindsey-USA TODAY Sports /
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Western Kentucky’s Tyler Higbee has a chance to be a solid playmaker in the NFL.

Western Kentucky’s Tyler Higbee is a talented pass catcher who is someone capable of creating mismatches at the next level. He features the size, length and quickness to attack the seam. However, there are a few issues that will negatively impact his draft stock.

The biggest concern right now is Higbee’s recent arrest which couldn’t have come at a worst time. With the draft a few weeks away, it’ll be difficult for Higbee to put his arrest in the rearview mirror or even establish a possible outcome.

There’s a good chance that a handful of teams will take Higbee completely off their board.

Another area of concern is Higbee’s lack of effectiveness as an in-line blocker. He lacks he bulk and raw power needed to consistently generate a push off the line. However, Higbee does show some promise as a lead blocker when lined up in an H-back type role.

While being an effective blocker is important Higbee will be valued because of his ability to make plays in the passing game. He’s a reliable target who is capable of making tough catches in traffic. Higbee does a great job adjusting his body to grab poorly thrown balls.

He’s a natural pass catcher with strong hands that he uses to routinely pluck the ball away from his frame. His size and leaping ability make him a major threat inside the red zone.

Higbee is talented enough to be a true playmaker in the NFL if he’s able to put his recent off-field problems behind him. However, I wouldn’t be surprised if he goes undrafted and seen as a priority free agent due to these recent developments.

Draft Range- 4th round based on talent, but likely looking at 7th round