NFL Draft prospects to watch in National Championship Game
By Brad Weiss
O.J. Howard
TE, Alabama
O.J. Howard is an elite tight end prospect, and will no doubt be the first player at his position selected next April. Howard has a rare blend of size and speed, and is the kind of tight end that can take over a game. He is by far the best receiver on the Crimson Tide offense, and projects to be an impact player at the next level.
Tight end is such a premium position in the NFL, as those teams with good tight ends often find themselves in the playoffs. Howard has very soft hands, great speed for someone his size, and also can get the job done in pass blocking. At 6-foot-6, Howard gives the opposition fits, and Clemson could be in for another long night against him on Monday.
In last year’s National Championship Game, Howard was named the game’s Offensive MVP, after roasting the Tigers defense for two long touchdowns. In total, Howard caught five balls for over 200 yards, while cementing his place as the best tight end in the country. He has been an impact player once again in 2016, and outside of Michigan’s Jake Butt, may be the only first-round talent at his position.
For as good as he is at the college level, his skill set should make him even more dangerous at the next level. The NFL game revolves around the passing game, and having an elite tight end is something all organizations clamor for. Howard is going to be an elite player in the NFL, and the only question is really which team is going to be lucky enough to have him on their roster in 2017.