Minnesota Vikings 2017 NFL draft recap with grades and analysis
By Jordan Reid
"With the 201st overall pick in the 2017 NFL Draft, the Minnesota Vikings select Bucky Hodges, tight end, Virginia Tech."
The 2017 tight end class was arguably the deepest in draft history. There were various varieties of, and every type that you could have dreamed of. Strictly in-line blockers, pass catchers, and even many that had a combination of both. Former Virginia Tech tight end Bucky Hodges is listed as a tight end, but he proved to be a big receiver or move tight end for the Hokies.
Hodges was a three-year starter, the most ironic factor about Hodges though is that before he stepped foot on campus, he had never played tight end before. He red-shirted during the 2013 season and that is where he learned the nuances of the position.
New #Vikings TE Temuchin "Bucky" Hodges appeared in 40 games w/ 37 starts while at Virginia Tech & racked up 133 rec., 1,747 yards & 20 TDs
— Vikings Communications (@VikingsPR) April 29, 2017
He earned his label as a big receiver due to the way he was used in the Virginia Tech offense. Rarely used as an in-line blocker, he was best served as a pass catcher. Hodges went on to record career highs in catches (48), yards (691), and tying his career high in touchdowns (7).
What you notice is that he steadily got better as his career went along. He still has his deficiencies and occasional drops, but he is progressing as a move tight end.
With the loss of Rhett Ellison to the New York Giants, there were only two tight ends left on the roster with in-game reps (Kyle Rudolph and David Morgan). The team swung on Jared Cook and missed as he eventually chose the Oakland Raiders.
The team desperately needed a receiving threat behind Rudolph, as Morgan will handle most of the blocking duties now that they decided not to re-sign fullback Zach Line.
Hodges is a prospect with a similar skill set as Cook and he has a chance to come in and compete for the no. 2 tight end role beside Rudolph.