Mychal Rivera (Tennessee) - 2013 NFL Draft Pick #184 by OAK
What The Experts Thought Before The Draft
Pre-Draft Analysis for Mychal Rivera - 2013 NFL Draft
Position: Tight End
College: University of Tennessee
Overview
Mychal Rivera emerged as one of the more intriguing tight end prospects in the 2013 NFL Draft. Known for his reliable hands and ability to make plays after the catch, Rivera showcased a solid blend of skills that made him an appealing option for NFL teams looking to bolster their tight end position.
Strengths
- Receiving Ability: Rivera demonstrated excellent hands and route-running skills during his college career, allowing him to create separation from defenders.
- Versatility: Capable of lining up in various formations, Rivera could contribute both as a traditional tight end and in spread offenses.
- Yards After Catch: His agility and speed allowed him to gain additional yards after receptions, making him a threat in the open field.
- Football IQ: Rivera showed a strong understanding of defensive coverages, allowing him to find soft spots in zones effectively.
Weaknesses
- Blocking Skills: While competent, Rivera's blocking could be inconsistent, raising questions about his ability to contribute in a traditional run-heavy offense.
- Size and Strength: At 6'3" and around 250 pounds, he may lack the ideal size to overpower defenders at the next level.
- Injury History: Concerns about durability were noted, as he missed some time during his college career due to minor injuries.
Draft Projection
Mychal Rivera was projected to be selected in the middle rounds of the 2013 NFL Draft. Teams looking for a reliable receiving tight end with the potential to develop into a solid contributor would likely find him an attractive option.
Conclusion
Mychal Rivera's combination of receiving skills and versatility made him a noteworthy prospect heading into the 2013 NFL Draft. While he had areas for improvement, his playmaking ability and football intelligence could provide great value for a team looking to enhance its offensive attack.