Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Payne Durham (Purdue) - 2023 NFL Draft Pick #171 by TB

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Pre-Draft Analysis for Payne Durham - Purdue

Player Overview:
Payne Durham is a tight end from Purdue University who has garnered attention for his combination of size, athleticism, and receiving ability. Standing at 6'5" and weighing around 250 pounds, Durham has the physical attributes that NFL teams look for in a tight end. Strengths:

• Catch Radius: Durham offers a large catch radius due to his height and wingspan, making him a reliable target in the passing game.
• Route Running: He displays solid route running skills, capable of creating separation against linebackers and safeties.
• Blocking Ability: While primarily known for his receiving skills, Durham is also a competent blocker, able to assist in both the run game and pass protection.
• Football IQ: His understanding of defensive schemes allows him to find soft spots in zone coverage, making him an effective option in critical situations.

Weaknesses:

• Speed: While Durham has good size, he lacks elite speed, which may limit his ability to stretch the field vertically.
• Consistency: At times, he has shown moments of inconsistency in his catching, which could lead to dropped passes in crucial situations.
• Separation: He may struggle to consistently create separation against faster defensive backs in man coverage.

Overall Assessment:
Payne Durham has the potential to be a valuable asset for an NFL team, particularly as a versatile tight end who can contribute in both the passing and rushing games. His combination of size and skills makes him an intriguing prospect, but teams may need to consider his limitations in terms of speed and consistency. Depending on the system he enters, Durham could develop into a reliable contributor at the next level, particularly in a system that utilizes tight ends effectively in short to intermediate routes. Projected Draft Position:
Durham is projected to be selected in the mid to late rounds of the 2023 NFL Draft, with potential to rise if he performs well in workouts and interviews leading up to the draft.