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2020 NFL Draft: Jake Ferguson sits atop preseason TE rankings

By Jacob Harrison

MADISON, WISCONSIN - NOVEMBER 03: Jake Ferguson #84 of the Wisconsin Badgers runs with the ball while being chased by Damon Hayes #22 of the Rutgers Scarlet Knights in the fourth quarter at Camp Randall Stadium on November 03, 2018 in Madison, Wisconsin. (Photo by Dylan Buell/Getty Images)
MADISON, WISCONSIN - NOVEMBER 03: Jake Ferguson #84 of the Wisconsin Badgers runs with the ball while being chased by Damon Hayes #22 of the Rutgers Scarlet Knights in the fourth quarter at Camp Randall Stadium on November 03, 2018 in Madison, Wisconsin. (Photo by Dylan Buell/Getty Images) /
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FAYETTEVILLE, AR – OCTOBER 27: Jared Pinkney #80 of the Vanderbilt Commodores runs the ball during a game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Razorback Stadium on October 27, 2018 in Fayetteville, Arkansas. The Commodores defeated the Razorbacks 45-31. (Photo by Wesley Hitt/Getty Images)
FAYETTEVILLE, AR – OCTOBER 27: Jared Pinkney #80 of the Vanderbilt Commodores runs the ball during a game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Razorback Stadium on October 27, 2018 in Fayetteville, Arkansas. The Commodores defeated the Razorbacks 45-31. (Photo by Wesley Hitt/Getty Images) /

Jared Pinkney and Ferguson are really 1-A and 1-B for me. They each possess similar qualities, though Pinkney is more experienced, especially as a receiver. The difference between the two right now is Ferguson is a much more polished blocker and a better route runner.

Pinkney is a capable blocker, showing the toughness and grit one needs to be a factor in the SEC. However, despite his tendency to win one-on-ones with edge defenders, his technique can be lacking, often throwing his body into defenders and hoping for the best.Still, he shows promise in becoming a more refined blocker in the future. His willingness to stick his nose in and be physical can overshadow the fact that he converted from wide receiver.

Unlike Ferguson, Pinkney has shown his value as a pass-catcher. He’s been an asset in each of his three years in Nashville, racking up 94 receptions for 1327 yards and 12 touchdowns in his career. As I mentioned, his route running could really use some work. Though he has good awareness to find holes in the defense, his average speed coupled with his 255-pound frame make it a struggle to truly beat a defender in man coverage. However, he makes every target count, with great positioning against defenders and utilizing his strong body and hands to make the play. After the catch, he’s a relentless powerhouse, bulldozing helpless defensive backs in the open field for more yardage.

Pinkney has the mindset of a playmaker and should continue to improve against quality competition. With a bit more polish, he could find himself in a strong position come April.

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