2021 NFL Draft: Gorman’s TE rankings as Kyle Pitts skies above

3. Pat Freiermuth – Penn State

Penn State’s tumultuous and shortened 2020 campaign was only exacerbated by the loss of their top TE talent and 2021 NFL Draft hopeful, Pat Freiermuth. The big tight end prospect entered the season in contention for the top spot at the position before opting out after only four games. However, he recorded over 300 yards in that timespan, showcasing the type of ability that has scouts comparing him to a young Rob Gronkowski.

Freiermuth’s size may not fit the comparison, as the junior stands 6-foot-5, and 258 pounds, but his play-style is reminiscent of the current Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ star. He’s a bully in the run game and can make tough and acrobatic catches in traffic. Those areas should only improve at the next level and Freiermuth could hear his name called before the end of the second round.

4. Hunter Long – Boston College

The Boston College Eagles do not have a great recent history of successful tight end prospects in the NFL. However, Tommy Sweeney was drafted by the Buffalo Bills in the seventh round in 2020, and Hunter Long figures to come off the board much sooner. Long has great size and was extremely productive this past season. He racked 685 yards, which placed him second in the nation behind only Pitts from Florida.

In a deep and talented TE pool, Long should be drafted by the end of round two. He offers long-term starter upside in the NFL and could step in right away. Long is a functional blocker with good strength and soft hands. Long is a dependable target that runs good routes and makes tough catches all over the field. His upside is not as high as others in this list, but he is a solid prospect overall.