Miami tight end Clive Walford really shined at the 2015 NFL Combine when he posted the best numbers for his position in several categories including 40 yard dash, vertical jump, and broad jump. It’s that kind of athleticism that really shines when you watch him on tape.
I loved watching Walford because he didn’t seem to take a single play off. He worked just as hard during plays where he was asked to block as those when he was going out for a pass. And when asked to block, he’s a strong, reliable player who typically isn’t beaten when engaged. He can use his speed to block far down the field or his agility to shake a tackler after a catch.
However, there are some concerns about Clive Walford that could make teams worried about using an early pick on him. He does seem to drop too many passes and needs to be able to focus his efforts to succeed. However, his only real mistakes seem to be mental ones that could be worked on by a team’s coaching staff and be helped with veteran leadership.
Oct 4, 2014; Atlanta, GA, USA; Miami Hurricanes tight end Clive Walford (46) runs a route against the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets in the fourth quarter at Bobby Dodd Stadium. Georgia Tech defeated Miami 28-17. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports
Combine Measurables:
- Height: 6’4″
- Weight: 251 pounds
- Arm Length: 34″
- Hand Size: 10 1/4″
- 40 Yard Dash: 4.79 seconds
- Bench Press: 20 reps
- Vertical Jump: 35.0″
- Broad Jump: 120.0″
- 3 Cone Drill: N/A
- 20 Yard Shuttle: 4.57 seconds
Draft Projection
Clive Walford is currently the #61 overall prospect in the 2015 NFL Draft according to CBS Sports and is currently their #2 rated tight end. He is projected to be a second round selection.
NFL Player Comparison
- NFL.com: Dwayne Allen, Indianapolis Colts
- CBSSports.com: N/A
Fit For The Vikings
Minnesota currently has their starting tight end locked up in Kyle Rudolph and they also have some decent depth behind him. However, competition and youth are two things that the Vikings really value on their team.
My Take
I have to admit that despite his drops, I can see Clive Walford as a great value in the second round. He’s a tight end that can do it all, but needs a team that can help focus his abilities. I don’t think he’ll be selected by the Vikings because of the lack of need at his position, but some team will get an excellent player when they pick Walford.
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