2022 NFL DRAFT PROSPECT REPORT

Jake Ferguson

Film Watched: Michigan 2021, Northwestern 2020, Minnesota 2020

Pro's:

  • Traditional tight end with an all-round skillset
  • The model of consistency at Wisconsin, with 30+ catches all four years in Madison
  • Fights to be an option for his quarterback on every rep
  • Adept pass catcher who will snag in any errant ball, low or high
  • High football IQ, demonstrated by his varied workload and responsibilities
  • Has the understanding to be moved around the formation and play different roles
  • Redzone threat; excellent in selling the run on play action and peeling off into open space for the TD
  • True team player and locker room leader who galvanises teammates with effort and dedication

Con's:

  • Not explosive. Agility, fluidity, speed all above average but not at the level of other prospects
  • Dedicated to his route running but hampered by tightness in and out of breaks
  • Noted lack of play strength, and exposed in pass protection against fast, powerful edge rushers
  • Determined with the ball in his hand but won’t overpower contact or escape it after the catch
  • High effort doesn’t mask the lack of aggression or ‘nasty’ to his game

The Verdict:

“In a league where teams are turning more and more to dynamic playmakers at the tight end position, Jake Ferguson might feel like something of a throwback. Primarily used inline, Ferguson showed commitment and capability to every aspect of the position, if not elite ability at any one role. That being said, he found a way to be productive for The Badgers and was the one viable option in the passing game of a notorious run-first offense. Scouts will fall in love with his smarts and how much he can do for you - Wisconsin moved him around the formation and had him in motion on a number of occasions, and no matter how much they asked of him the playbook was never too big. This will appeal to teams looking for a jack of all trades that can add depth to the position group. Ferguson should hear his name called late on day two.”
Mock Draft
Simon Carroll
Head Of NFL Draft Content

NFL COMPARISON: COLE KMET

PREDICTION: 3RD ROUND PICK

Mock Draft

SIMON CARROLL

HEAD OF CFB/NFL DRAFT CONTENT

PREVIOUSLY THE FOUNDER OF NFL DRAFT UK, SIMON HAS BEEN COVERING COLLEGE FOOTBALL AND THE NFL DRAFT SINCE 2009. BASED IN MANCHESTER, SIMON IS ALSO CO-CREATOR & WEEKLY GUEST OF THE COLLAPSING POCKET PODCAST.

5/5