Round 2 – Adam Shaheen, Ashland
Evan Engram might be the ideal second round pick at the tight end position, but some considered him a fringe round one option, so it doesn’t seem likely he’ll be there when the Raiders pick at 56th overall.
But Adam Shaheen, if McKenzie decides to go tight end here, would be a solid alternative.
Standing at a towering 6’6″ and 278 pounds, he’s bigger than Martellus Bennett and Rob Gronkowski. And he’s a pretty good athlete as well, especially for his size.
Last one....Don't see this very often from a 6'6 277 lb TE. (Adam Shaheen) pic.twitter.com/uY1yeetnD1
— Daniel Jeremiah (@MoveTheSticks) February 21, 2017
Shaheen fits the tight end stereotype that everyone loves — former basketball player. He’ll have big shoes to fill if he hopes to follow in the footsteps of basketball to football converts before him, but he might be up to the task.
He’s an impressive route-runner, and was lined up all over the field during his time at Ashland. His versatility could translate well in the NFL, as teams could use him up the seam, as a big slot receiver, or in a variety of other ways.
Ashland TE Adam Shaheen high pointing the ball on GL. pic.twitter.com/i0x7ZOe68q
— Daniel Jeremiah (@MoveTheSticks) February 14, 2017
Shaheen also has consistent hands, but there are some other areas he needs to work on. For one, he can get jammed at the line of scrimmage too often. And considering his size, he’s a much worse blocker than you would expect. Another concern is the level of competition he faced — it’ll be a big jump to play against NFL talent.
Both Todd McShay and Daniel Jeremiah like him as a day two sleeper, so he’s certainly a name to watch.