The Chicago Bears 2020 draft plan is almost guaranteed to feature tight ends. Such is what happens when an entire position group fails to produce a 100-yard guy. Adam Shaheen is a bust. Trey Burton can't stay healthy. They desperately need a threat at that position who can create something in the passing game. That is undoubtedly why they're showing interest in Dayton tight end Adam Trautman.
This small school prospect has created quite a buzz over the past month, looking strong in practices according to multiple reports. So what exactly is his story? Are we looking at just another Shaheen? It's time to find out what the hubbub is about. Here is a scouting report on Trautman, illustrating what he could bring to the table.
Chicago Bears 2020 draft look at Adam Trautman
Strengths:
- Size stands out. He's every bit of 6'6 and presents a wide catch radius for any quarterback to target.
- Runs really well. Can get out in space with good speed and acceleration, giving linebackers big problems.
- Strong hands. Seems to be natural making the catch with no bobbling or double clutching.
- Does not shirk his responsibilities as a blocker. He'll stick his nose in there and give as good as he gets.
People will focus on Trautman for his receiving ability, which is substantial. What makes him stand out more than most though is his willingness to dish out sustained and determined blocks like this. Not only does he get the defender turned away from the hole. He also pancakes the guy into the turf. A lot of tight ends don't do things like that.
- High points the ball really well. Times his jumps to where he gets to it before anybody else.
- Has good spacial awareness. Feels defenders around him as a receiver and gets proper position on blocks in the open field.
- Made 110 catches his final two years at Dayton. No fewer than 23 of them went for touchdowns.
- Shows an aggressive temperament in his play. Doesn't take plays off. Always goes to the echo of the whistle.
Weaknesses:
- Obvious concerns that he's never cut his teeth against top competition. Has feasted on lower programs his entire college career.
- The majority of players he's lined up against were significantly smaller. Can he compete with actual size?
- Route running tree is rather limited. Typically stuck to verticals, crossers, and outs with minimal subtlety.
- Can get lazy with his blocking at times. Uses his shoulder rather than his hands and gets beat because of it.
- While tall, he seems a bit on the thinner side for a tight end. This could lead to strength issues at the NFL level.
Pro comparison: Greg Olsen
In terms of body type, athleticism, and receiving prowess the two share much in common. Olsen became one of the better pass-catching tight ends in the NFL after the Bears traded him to Carolina. Somebody who was a constant threat on 3rd down. This overshadowed how seriously he took his blocking. He was never great at it, but he became decent.
Projection: 2nd Round
Trautman has created enough of a buzz after the Senior Bowl to make one believe he'll rise into the top 50 picks. There is too much risk involved for the 1st round, so he'll be a 2nd round pick to somebody. There is too much talent and good tape to ignore. He is a project but one that is worth the risk given his clear motor for the game and massive upside.
