The tight end class is filled with not-so-gentle Bens. But the most famous name is Kellen Winslow Jr. His dad changed the position in San Diego. Son is a meaner version. Other than Winslow, only one of the Bens is a first-rounder–Troupe of Florida.
1. Kellen Winslow Jr.
6-3, 250, Miami
Should make instant impact like predecessor Jeremy Shockey. Could be best player in draft.
2. Ben Troupe
6-4, 260, Florida
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Outstanding, agile athlete whose size will cause matchup problems. Better receiver than blocker.
3. Ben Watson
6-3, 260, Georgia
Slowed by ankle injury, but Senior Bowl and fast combine time in 4.4s opened eyes.
4. Ben Hartsock
6-4, 260, Ohio State
Physical blocker. Hard worker. Similar to ex-Illini Ken Dilger.
5. Ben Utecht
6-6, 250, Minnesota
Former wide receiver needs to improve strength.
Sleeper
Jason Peters
6-4, 335, Arkansas
Whopping size for tight end, his hands and body control are surprising.
Local
Nick Eller
6-4, 260, Eastern Illinois
Eller caught 9 TD passes over the last two seasons and has the size to play in the NFL. He could go in the late rounds but is likely to have to try out as a free agent.