John Carlson TE 6’5 255 Notre Dame 4.85

Carlson didn’t have much of an impact as a receiver his first two years in the program, as he caught just 13 passes for 87 yards and a touchdown combined. As a junior though, he had a huge season, finishing with 47 catches for 634 yards and four touchdowns, on his way to All American honors. His numbers dipped as a senior with the youth at quarterback, but he still caught 40 passes for 372 yards and three touchdowns.

Carlson is an excellent tight end prospect. He has very good size, and knows how to use it. He can shield a defender off and make plays over the middle or in the red zone. He also has the athleticism and quickness to get open and make plays most tight ends cannot make. He should be a very solid receiving tight end at the next level.

Like most tight ends near the top of the draft, Carlson is more of a receiver than a blocker. He will need to continue to bulk up and get stronger to improve his blocking skills at the next level.

Carlson is not a poor blocker, but his name is made from the impact he makes as a receiver. The tight end class looks like a quality class, and Carlson is in the top tier group. He didn’t produce as much this year, but that was not his fault though. Notre Dame shuffled in three inexperienced QB’s and it effected Carlson’s numbers. He should still be a second or third round selection.