Cleveland Browns 2017 NFL Draft Profile: O.J. Howard
O.J. Howard was one of college football’s most gifted tight ends the last two seasons of his collegiate career, both receiving and blocking. While coaching could be a credit to this, Howard’s physical composure and natural abilities are most responsible.
Howard is surprisingly talented in space, yet can still use his size to go through defenders if needed. His blocking will need to improve, but as a tight end he won’t need to block like a right guard or center.
Many of his strengths, according to his NFL.com draft profile, include:
"Can turn a short throw into a long gain. Light on his feet and smooth out of his breaks. Easy separator who creates instant throwing windows when he hits the gas. Natural pass catcher who plucks it away from his body. Can adjust to poorly thrown balls and secure contested catches. Shows no lack of toughness over the middle. Can be lined up all over the field.Can turn a short throw into a long gain. Light on his feet and smooth out of his breaks. Easy separator who creates instant throwing windows when he hits the gas. Natural pass catcher who plucks it away from his body. Can adjust to poorly thrown balls and secure contested catches. Shows no lack of toughness over the middle. Can be lined up all over the field."
Even though his college career was a success with Alabama, there are critics who claim that Howard left something to be desired. Many say that he never reached his full potential, and while he still could theoretically, the same weaknesses which prevented him from becoming the best he could be at Alabama will do the same at the professional level.
What is especially puzzling about the report is that the majority of Howard’s weaknesses are not flaws with his physical abilities, but his motivation and demeanor on the field.
"Will need more muscle and mass to be an in-line blocker as a pro. Appears passive. Doesn’t have the field demeanor of most Alabama players.Will need more muscle and mass to be an in-line blocker as a pro. Appears passive. Doesn’t have the field demeanor of most Alabama players."
And, the most troubling line of the entire scouting report:
"Scouts question his competitive nature.Scouts question his competitive nature."
It will be difficult for the Browns to chase yet another player who lacks the burning passion and desire to play the game. But to give Howard the benefit of the doubt, this is reversible, unlike some physical skills. Howard’s natural ability still keeps him high on many NFL teams’ draft boards, so it should keep him in the mix on Cleveland’s too.