2018 Raiders Draft Prospect: TE Dalton Schultz

2018 Raiders Draft Profile

Name: Dalton Schultz

Position: Tight End

School: Stanford

Height: 6-foot-6

Weight: 240 pounds

Projected Round: 3-5

Stats

Scouts may mislabel Dalton Schultz as a blocking tight end only. However, this Cardinal is not a one-trick pony, even if his game tape suggests otherwise.

With a prototypical blockers build, Stanford did not make catching the pigskin a priority for Schultz and the results speak for themselves. Just watch Cardinal running back Bryce Love as he breaks through the line on one of his many impressive runs. Pause it when he approaches the line of scrimmage. You will see Schultz doing the dirty work by opening the holes.

Yet, when Schultz was tasked with catching the rock (22 receptions for 212 yards and three touchdowns), he was more than comfortable as he displayed natural route running skills and soft hands.

Raiders Fit:

Schultz is a younger and more capable version of Lee Smith. It is unclear if the veteran top-tier blocking tight end returns for 2018 and nabbing the Stanford Cardinal would check that box off the list. New head coach Jon Gruden has a penchant for using blocking tight ends (remember Roland Williams in his Chucky’s first stint as Raiders boss?) and Schultz most-definitely fits the bill. What he adds to the mix is a blocker who can run and catch.

Strengths:

Solid build and holds up well against fierce competition in trench warfare. Sound in-line blocker who and is just as good when out in space. Uses his body well to wall off defenders in both the run and pass game. Crisp route runner who catches the ball with his hands, not a body catcher. Likely to be a better professional than collegiate tight end.

Weaknesses:

Not as fast as other tight ends in the class. Film suggests he is nothing more than a blocker who occasionally flashes as a receiver. Will need adjustment to speed of NFL game. Lower body strength can be improved. Primarily lined up on left side, must show he is versatile and can be placed anywhere on the line.