As we move through free agency, collegiate athletes will start visiting NFL teams that they hope will draft them. Following a quality effort in both the NFL Scouting Combine and Alabama’s pro day, tight end O.J. Howard will be meeting the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Tennessee Titans.
While the tight end position is not an area of concern for either franchise, both teams could use a safety valve for their quarterback. Tampa Bay and Tennessee both finished at 9-7 last season, and with Jameis Winston and Marcus Mariota still growing – a talented specimen that can make explosive plays as well as block is ideal.
Listed at 6-foot-6 and 250 pounds, Howard finished his tenure at the University of Alabama with 1,000-plus yards receiving and seven touchdowns on 114 catches. He is regarded as the top-ranked tight end in this class and projects as a top 10-15 pick.
Stephen M. Smith is a managing editor and columnist for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @Smsmith_TDALMag.
