Zach Ertz Scouting Report

Stanford University tight end Zach Ertz is quietly surpassing the other best TE prospect, Notre Dame's Tyler Eifert, on many draft boards. What Ertz offers is a huge frame, solid straight line speed, so he can be a versatile offensive weapon.

Ertz is polished as a receiver. He runs clean routes and shows a nice snap when changing directions. He clears defenders without losing much speed and can redirect a linebacker caught flat-footed. Ertz has great hands and can snatch the ball away from his body. Not a great leaper, but with long arms and a tall frame, he doesn't necessarily need to be. Tough and willing to take big hits over the middle.

As a blocker, Ertz has a long way to go. He'll be best utilized as a receiver first and a blocker second. A potential liability against elite pass rushers. Will need at least a year before becoming close to an "every-down" type of tight end who can stay in on pass protection on occasion. Lacks the lower body strength to push a defender off his mark. Plays with a good attitude, a hard working football player.

Ertz's shortcomings as a blocker could limit where he ends up. With a more pass-heavy team, he'd make a great fit. He projects as a early-second round pick in the 2013 NFL Draft.