Jelani Woods (Virginia)
Measurements:
- Height: 6-foot-7 | Weight: 259 pounds
2021 Stats:
- 44 catches
- 598 yards
- 8 touchdowns
Jelani Woods is still learning the tight end position after originally attending Oklahoma State as a quarterback. He transitioned to tight end shortly after arriving on campus and took a massive leap when he transferred to Virginia for the 2021 season.
Woods got his name on the map with a dominant season with the Cavaliers and continues that rise with a big showing at the Shrine Bowl. That has bumped him into the conversation as one of the best in this class and his athletic profile will only help his case.
At 6-foot-7, Woods is already a potential matchup nightmare. When you factor in his length, speed, and functional strength, Woods has all the makings of an NFL difference-maker.
He ran a 4.61-second 40-yard dash at his size, which is pretty much unheard of. Not only does he measure above the 97th percentile in height, but he also clocked in at the 88th percentile in speed and 82nd on the bench press.
Jelani Woods speaks highly of himself and wants to be valued as a pass catcher and as a blocker. His mean streak and competitive toughness in the run game will set him apart from this draft class, while his ability to dominate 50/50 balls is just the cherry on top.
If I were to stamp my claim as the best tight end in the 2022 NFL Draft when all is said and done, Jelani Woods would be the guy. Since he is currently projected as the third or fourth tight end off the board, Woods would be a great value in the third round for the Vikings.