The emergence of Miami tight end David Njoku at this time last season eventually led to him being selected in the 1st round of the 2017 NFL Draft. His athletic ability, frame, and speed after the catch were major draws to anyone who scouted him. Fast forward to the 2017 version of the Hurricanes and there is another tight end who doesn’t look very different in terms of tools and upside. Senior Christopher Herndon is a part of a 1-2 punch in the team’s passing game that is putting his upper tier every-down ability on full display.
What He Does Well:
Herndon has a long frame that has been steadily adding the necessary bulk for full time duties in the NFL. Long arms, big hands that swallow the ball on contact, and a twitchy lower half can make him a matchup nightmare for linebackers and defensive backs alike. Herndon is tough in traffic, showing the willingness to extend his body over the middle with safeties coming down on him. That kind of approach with his above average ball skills and downfield speed make him a weapon that can be used on all levels of the passing game. His effort as a blocker matches what he shows when going after the ball as a receiver.
Where He Needs Work:
While his physical presence as a blocker has improved, he needs to be more effective on running downs. A year from now he won’t be trying to move college kids, he is going to be manned up against some of the most powerful athletes in the game. He currently gets moved as often as he moves others when it comes to one-on-one engagements with defenders. His technique and effort are there, but there needs to be more strength output provided.