NFL Draft Diamonds Scouting Report: Ari Werts, TE, East Tennessee State University
NFL Draft Diamonds Scouting Report: Ari Werts, TE, East Tennessee State University
- Player – Ari Werts
- Position- Tight End
- School- East Tennessee State University
- Weight- 235 lb
- Draft – 2019
- Projected 40 – 4.59
- Projected round – UDFA
News & Stats
Career- 48 catch, 688 yds & 3 TD’s
2017
- 2017 Mackey preseason watch list
- 22 catches, 275 yds
- Career long 59 yd catch season opener vs Tenn St
- 4th on team with catches with only 5 starts
- Used sparingly last season
2016
- 21 catches, 329 yds & 3 TD’s
- 4 catches for 60 yds vs Troy
- 4 catches 76 yds & a TD vs Idaho
2015 Played mostly on Special teams
- 3 catches 63 yds plus 3 ST tackles in Autonation Cure Bowl vs San Jose St
Report
Werts is a TE/ H back candidate that can move like a big wide out.
Not used a whole lot at Georgia State only starting 5 games at TE in 17. His numbers might not turn many heads but the lack of legitimate talent at the TE position makes me believe with a good SR yr, Werts could find himself on a squad this time next year. Sure I’m going out on a limb with the lack of big numbers and production but i am sure i am not the only one that sees a high ceiling for this SR TE when you look at him from a athletic POV.
He had 3 TD’s in 2016 yet didn’t have any last season, sometimes it’s just coaching or lack of red zone appearances. Whatever it may be we are not dealing with a high powered O & that should be taken into account. We have to look at the full body of work as well as did he make the most of what was presented to him?
He can move for a big guy quick get off & in/out of breaks. Not the heaviest TE around but a really well built lean muscular frame. Strong upper body with lean quick legs and really quick feet, long reach, vertical & lateral ability. Can catch in traffic has nice hands and focus.
Think he could be a good blocker he certainly shows toughness making tackles on ST.
Could play inline, Slot TE or even H back. I see him alot like a H back formerly of the Eagles and current Bear TE Trey Burton. Not gonna say he is on his level by any means, Tre had 3 TD’s in 1 game so i won’t go there. I am saying i see a similarity in his style, size & skillset. A perfect fit as that 3rd TE that can do it all block, catch play ST’s.
2018- 19 season is huge for Werts he is not quite at a NFL draftable level quite yet but if Georgis St could utilize him more and have more success as whole on O. Very well could have a 500-600 yd yr with 5-6 TD’s easily. If that happens he will most likely if not surely find his way into a Training Camp next July.
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