Bucky Hodges, TE, Virginia Tech: 2017 NFL Draft Scouting Report

Nov 28, 2014; Blacksburg, VA, USA; Virginia Tech Hokies tight end Bucky Hodges (7) reacts late in the fourth quarter. The Hokies defeated the Virginia Cavaliers 24-20 at Lane Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports

The tight end class for the 2017 NFL draft appears loaded, and Bucky Hodges could be one of the highlights. Does his scouting report reflect that?

Position: TE

School: Virginia Tech

Year: Junior

Height: 6’7″

Weight: 245 lbs

History:

Actually started out as a quarterback in high school and was a four-star recruit to Virginia Tech at that position. This helps explain intelligence and understanding for the various requirements as a receiver. He was converted to tight end once he got to college.

STRENGTHS:

This play showcases what pro teams want to have in their starting tight ends nowadays. Hodges is matched up on a shorter defensive back. Predictably the quarterback goes his way. He uses every bit of his height and physicality to fight off the defender while using proper hand technique to high point the football for a touchdown catch. That is textbook red zone execution.

WEAKNESSES:

Bucky Hodges will be a tremendous receiving TE in the NFL, but he won't be a 1st round pick because of blocking like this. pic.twitter.com/GRlIi0lcSB

— Erik Lambert (@ErikLambert1) January 16, 2017

Everything about Hodges from a downside point of view as a blocker is showcased here. The defender uses leverage and a nice setup move to get him to drop his head and lunge. Predictably the defender gives him the slip around the edge and is able to help blow the play up in the backfield. Not only does Hodges need to stay low in that situation but also has to stay patient in his fundamentals.

Pro Comparison: Julius Thomas

Like with Thomas, everything depends on the scheme Hodges ends up in. Thomas was a dynamic and often uncoverable weapon in the passing game for the Denver Broncos. He had size and speed to his advantage. Featuring those two traits, he’s invaluable. However, put him in a more traditional offense where he has to block a lot and his impact is cut considerably. Hodges has a height advantage over Thomas but has similar blocking concerns.

Projection: 2nd to 3rd round

His incomplete skill set does not fall in line with what makes a top 32 selection. Even so, there will be one team who sees his enormous value as a pass catcher on Day 2 and pulls the trigger. Hodges will be an immediate help through the air. If he can improve his technique and add more weight, there’s also a chance he can shore up the one area of his game holding him back.