With the NFL evolving into more spread offensive sets, the tight end position has become extremely valuable. Players like Jimmy Graham and Rob Gronkowski has transcended the position for the future. This year's tight end class is headed by star players like Eric Ebron and Jace Amaro. The two are most likely first-round talents, but it is unclear who the best options are after the two. In this article, I will compare Austin Seferian-Jenkins and Troy Niklas.
 

College Outlook

It is unfair to use their college production as a factor in choosing which player is better. Seferian-Jenkins was the feature playmaker in Washington's offense. While Niklas did not receive starting minutes until Tyler Eifert left for the NFL. It is easy to see that the two had very similar seasons, even though Seferian-Jenkins was suspended for a few games. The two players could be seen as polar opposites, considering the fact that Seferian-Jenkins has had some off-field concerns. Like almost everybody at Notre Dame, Niklas is a player who gives it his all in every game. Both have great frames and decent hands. But if you had to choose between the two, Seferian-Jenkins had a better college career.

Verdict: Seferian-Jenkins

Hands

While Niklas has the frame quarterbacks love, his hands need a lot of work. Seferian-Jenkins has a similar frame to Niklas, but his hands are simply better. The best thing about thing about the Washington tight end is that he has a huge catch-radius. Given his athleticism, Seferian-Jenkins can catch contest passes even if he is being covered by defenders.

Verdict: Seferian-Jenkins

Speed

It has been reported that Niklas ran a 4.85 40-yard dash, while Seferian Jenkins ran a 4.75 40-yard dash. Speed is most important off the line of scrimmage. Having a fast tight end is extremely valuable for offenses to stretch opposing defenses, this is why Seferian-Jenkins wins this factor between the two college tight ends.

Verdict: Seferian-Jenkins

Run Blocking

While the two could both become extremely good at run blocking, it seems like Niklas will be better in the long haul. The problem with Seferian-Jenkins is that he seems to not care when's blocking against the run. Because of that, Seferian-Jenkins will most likely be used more in passing situations. Both have the talent to be four-down players, but Niklas will most-likely be better in his first year.

Verdict: Niklas

Overall

Seferian-Jenkins reminds me a lot of Rob Gronkowski, when the latter came out of Arizona. Both have had problems with the law, but both would be high-risk, high-reward type of players. Niklas had the potenial to be a player similar to a guy like Todd Heap, but I believe Seferian-Jenkins will end up having a better NFL career than Niklas.

Verdict: Seferian-Jenkins