The Leading Authority of the NFL Draft

After Brandon Pettigrew, who has established himself as the consensus number one tight in the Class of 2009 and possible the only tight end who will hear his name called in the first round, there is a logjam at the position. Heading into today the six-pack of Cornelius Ingram, Chase Coffman, Shawn Nelson, Jared Cook, Travis Beckum and James Casey all have a realistic chance to be the second tight end selected and go off the board in day one. Who will separate themselves today?

Due to a leg injury, Coffman will not be able to perform, but the former Missouri Tiger tells the NFL Draft Bible his rehab is progressing well and he expects to be ready for his Pro Day. That leaves Ingram, Nelson, Cook, Beckum and Casey with a chance to make a move. All five are athletic and can run, with questions regarding their abilities as in-line blockers.

Keep an eye on how they perform in the 40-yard dash, as well as the vertical and broad jumps. The jumps both measure explosiveness, which is key for a tight end who will be expected to explode out of the blocks from their three-point stance and get down field in passing situations – a unique skill.

Best of the Rest: Brian Mandeville, Bear Pascoe, Richard Quinn & John Phillips – This group is not as athletic, but provides more bulk and blocking. They are more in the mold of a traditional tight end.

Best Player Not Invited: Ryan Purvis, Boston College