Nick O’Leary

Florida State, H-Back/FB

Height: 6.3

Weight: 235

Age: 23

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Athleticism: C-

Has decent speed for a tight end, but lacks acceleration off the line and out of his cuts. Appears to be stiff as a runner, but is fluid enough when moving as a blocker. Ability to threaten the seam and stretch the field is highly questionable.

Catching: C+

Good hands and is capable of working the middle of the field. Doesn’t appear to hear footsteps when making receptions over the middle and is able to secure the ball when taking a hit. Target to catch ratio is underwhelming and has trouble adjusting to passes thrown outside of the strike zone. Is frequently covered, which limits his ability convert passes into receptions.

Routes: D-

Struggles to separate from coverage. Inconsistent getting off the line and is the last one moving at times. Will get hung up on linebackers and struggles to uncover on short and intermediate routes. Chops his feet when getting in and out of his cuts. Best utilized on curl routes over the middle.

After Catch: A-

Extremely difficult to bring down after the catch. Will drag multiple defenders for a several yard ride. Falls forward and excels at moving the chains. Offers little wiggle or elusiveness.

Blocking: A-

Plays much bigger than his size and is an extremely tough and physical blocker for a tight end. Lines up as an inline and detached tight end, as well as on the wing. Powerful upper body and gets movement against linebackers and smaller defensive ends. Runs his feet on contact and works through the whistle and looks for someone to hit downfield. Stayed in often for pass protection and is patient and balanced in his set. Alert to where pressure is coming from and adjusts to work damage control.

Red Flags: Minor Character Concerns

Bottom Line: Nick O’Leary is one of the better blocking tight ends in this class, though he might be better served to play primarily as an H-back or fullback. Teams will want to investigate his personal character, as well as penchant for crashing his motorcycle, but O’Leary offers traits to fill an important situational role, whether it be as a blocker, short area receiver, on kickoff return teams, or as an upback.

Comparison: Will Johnson

Grade: 7.9 (4th Round)

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