Tucker Kraft (TE) – South Dakota St. / Junior
6’4.6”, 254 Lbs. (Official)
2022 Stats: 9 games, 27 receptions, 348 yards, 12.9 Yards per reception, 3 Touchdowns
{reference: http://hosted.stats.com/cfb/players.asp?id=306720}
Awards:
Measurables: Vertical – 34”, Broad – 1002, 40-yard – 4.69, 10-yard – 1.59, 20-yard shuttle – 4.29, 3-Cone – 7.08, Bench – 23 reps at 225 Lbs., RAS: 9.67
Games Watched: 2022 Vs. Illinois St., 2022 Vs. Northern Iowa
PRO’S
The Jackrabbit’s believed so heavily in Kraft’s play making ability that they even used him on running plays. Good awareness of where the holes are in zone coverage, makes himself available to the QB in the right space. Good body control in short areas, believe he will be a good option in the short yardage passing attack. Impressed by Kraft’s ability/willingness to mix it up with bigger defensive linemen in short yardage run plays. Kraft is a good blocker in space and when on the move, whether lined up off the LOS, lined up in the backfield or put in motion pre-snap. Vs. Illinois State, 2nd QTR, 10:18, Kraft is lined up in the slot and is the lead blocker on a WR screen, gets to the CB, gathers his balance and drives him out of the play.
CON’S
Vs. Illinois State, 1st QTR, 12:00, finger in the dirt, lined up against edge defender, head down after snap, lunges and misses on his block assignment. Coming from a smaller program, Kraft has had most of his success against lower level of talent, the NFL will be a big step up for him. Kraft’s 4.69 40-time is very impressive but the speed does not always show up when he is taking off on his deeper/vertical routes. 9 dropped passes over the last 2 seasons (21 games) for the Jackrabbits.
OVERALL THOUGHTS
Kraft is a tough, versatile tight end, who is big, strong and fast and has shown strong traits as an in-line run blocker, a run blocker out in space, a route runner and pass catcher. Kraft is not as flashy as some of the other tight ends who will highlight the top of most rankings lists but he is very well rounded and will likely hear his name called on the 2nd day of the NFL draft.
Completed by: @CoachSchepps, 04/12/23
Reviewed & edited: J. Clark, 04/12/23
