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Posted by Sean in Fantasy Advice on Feb 7th 2010 and last modified on Mar 8th 2010. (Print This)
The "Golden Boy" takes his game to the next level.
Golden Tate WR
Junior: Notre Dame
Height: 5’11″, 195 lbs.
The Junior out of South Bend will take his skills to the next level as he enters the 2010 NFL draft. His hand was almost forced with Jimmy Clausen taking the leap, and the exiting of Charlie Weis.
Strengths: Would be a nightmare for opposing defensive coordinators if he’s placed in the slot. Lacks prototypical size, but has the body control and hustle to outwork defenders. He can take it to the house with any touch of the ball. Short dump passes turn into game-changing plays. He has long ball speed, but is effective in moving the chains and WR screens. Is comfortable in the middle of the field and does not shy away from contact. He has a good sense of the field and has the ability to find soft spots in coverages. Displays good vision and has great Y.A.C. athleticism. Has experience in the wild-cat and has shown flashes as a return man. His versatility gives him the potential of being a utility man at the next level. He has decent speed, but don’t expect blazing numbers at the combine. His quickness and shiftiness make up for any lack in his straight-line speed. Appears to be a solid locker room guy, and has never had any character issues while playing in South Bend. Is familiar with pro-style offense.
Weaknesses: Catches the ball with his body too often which has led to some easy drops. His lack of size allows him to be jammed at the line and limits his red-zone abilities. He’s under 6ft, but knows how to position is body to make up for lack in size. Decent, but not extraordinary speed.
Sophomore Year 2008: Started 7 games for the Irish. Pulled down 58 receptions for 1,080 yards and 10 TDs.
Break Out Performance: Hawaii Bowl 2008: 6 catches, 177 yards, 3 TDs.
Junior Year 2009: He was rewarded with the 2009 Biletnikoff Award, which is given to the nation’s best receiver. He finished his ’09 campaign with 93 catches, nearly 1,500 yards and 15 touchdowns.
As more and more teams implement a spread style of offense, rookie receivers are seeing immediate playing time. Tate is a top round talent and should be selected in the late first/early second round. He could potentially land in Cincy or Baltimore towards the end of round one.
NFL Comparisons:Steve Smith, Hines Ward.
Highlights: