Weaknesses:
Summary: Entering the 2011 season, Egnew was one of the top tight end prospects in the nation. He had big production as a junior and was a real presence as a pass receiver. With Blaine Gabbert as his quarterback, Egnew caught 90 passes for 762 yards, an average of 8.5 per catch, and five touchdowns. While he hauled in a lot of passes, he didn’t show much ability to get yards after the catch.
As a senior, Egnew missed Gabbert and didn’t receive as large amount of targets. He had 50 receptions for 523 yards and three touchdowns. He had a big game against Iowa State with six receptions for 105 yards and a score. He caught 12 passes for 69 yards against Baylor. Otherwise, Egnew was quiet as a senior.
Egnew doesn’t look like he has the speed to be a receiving tight end in the NFL. He struggles to get separation from defenders who run well. After making catches, Egnew doesn’t have the quickness to get up field, so defenders surround him quickly. He can contribute as a blocker though.
Egnew could be a decent backup to a good tight end in the NFL. If he is paired with a dangerous tight end, he could take advantage of some soft coverage and help move the chains. He should only be a second or third tight end at the next level. He doesn’t have the plus skill set with speed and athletic ability to be a starter.
Player Comparison: Leonard Pope. Egnew doesn’t have the size of Pope (6-8, 264). However they have a similar-style game. Pope is able to contribute some as a receiver, but his lack of foot speed limits him from getting yards after the catch, just like Egnew. Entering the NFL, Egnew doesn’t ever project to being as good a blocker as Pope is. Pope was a third-round pick in the 2006 NFL Draft, and Egnew looks like a mid-round pick.
NFL Matches: Buffalo, New York Giants, Kansas City, San Diego, Atlanta,
Egnew could be an option for a lot of teams in the middle rounds. The Bills could use some tight end help even though they’ve re-signed Scott Chandler. The Giants are in need of a tight end, as Jake Ballard tore his ACL. Kansas City could use a tight end for depth with Tony Moeaki coming off an injury. The Falcons need help behind veteran Tony Gonzalez, who is nearing the end of his career. San Diego needs a reserve for Antonio Gates, as he has dealt with more frequent injuries as he ages.
RELATED LINKS:
2012 NFL Mock Draft: Charlie’s | Walt’s
2012 NFL Draft Prospect Rankings
2012 NFL Draft Scouting Reports
NFL Picks - Nov. 20
2025 NFL Mock Draft - Nov. 20
NFL Power Rankings - Nov. 19
Fantasy Football Rankings - Sept. 4
