2017 NFL draft positional breakdown: Tight ends

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We continue our positional breakdown leading up to the 2017 NFL draft with a look at tight ends. Instead of a top five, we'll highlight players at these positions who fit the Eagles and have a chance to be available when the team picks. 

We've already looked at running backslinebackersquarterbacksoffensive linemendefensive endsdefensive tackles and defensive backs

At No. 14
I can't see the Eagles thinking about a tight end here. If Alabama's O.J. Howard slips, they might consider it, but with the depth at the position, it doesn't make much sense.

In the middle
George Kittle, Iowa, 6-4, 247 pounds

Kittle's career numbers don't stand out (48 catches for 737 yards), but he impressed at the combine and was an excellent blocker at Iowa. Kittle will likely be gone by the time the Eagles even think about drafting him. With that said, he's one of the more complete tight ends in the draft. He'd be a strong complement to Zach Ertz.

Bucky Hodges, Virginia Tech, 6-6, 257 pounds
Hodges had an impressive career at Virginia Tech, hauling in 20 touchdown passes in his three years with the Hokies. Hodges has a receiver skill set with a tight end's body. He's not a great blocker, but he's a matchup nightmare. He could be a legitimate red-zone threat at the next level with his length and leaping ability.

Jonnu Smith, Florida International, 6-3, 248 pounds
Smith had a monster sophomore season (61 catches, 710 yards, eight touchdowns) before leveling off his final two seasons at FIU. Smith, a Germantown native, moves like a receiver. His 40 was excellent for a tight end (4.62) and he was near the top of all tight ends in agility drills. He's not the strongest blocker, but should find a role as a pass-catching tight end in an NFL offense.

Late-round sleeper(s)
Ricky Seals-Jones, Texas A&M, 6-5, 243 pounds

Seals-Jones spent his career at Texas A&M as a receiver. At Texas A&M's pro day, he took passes as an H-back/tight end. Seals-Jones just didn't have the speed to compete at receiver in college. A five-star recruit, Seals-Jones never lived up to the hype. As a tight end, he could be intriguing at the next level. 

Alex Armah, West Georgia, 6-2, 253 pounds
Armah played linebacker, defensive end and tight end in college. He likely projects best as a fullback, but I'll put him here. He recorded six sacks and had eight catches for 144 yards and a touchdown as a senior. He's tough and a team player. Just draft him as a football player and see what you can do with him. 

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