I’m not sure if there’s any other position in the NFL, besides tight end, that requires you to be an all-around player. From contributing as a run blocker and pass blocker, to working down the field as a receiver, a tight end is really asked to do it all. Despite not making the semifinalists for the John Mackey award, Cincinnati’s Josh Whyle has had a tremendous career for the Bearcats. In this 2023 NFL Draft scouting report, we’ll breakdown what makes Josh Whyle so special, as well as a predicted 40 time, injury history, and predict his NFL future.
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Josh Whyle 40 Time
I have Cincinnati TE Josh Whyle poised for a 4.61 40 time at the 2023 NFL Combine. This 40 time would be just over a tenth above the league average for the tight end position in the NFL. On game film, Whyle doesn’t possess tremendous explosiveness off the line of scrimmage, however, he is able to separate from the defender at the top of the route.
Josh Whyle Injury History
Last season, Josh Whyle suffered a foot injury during the Cotton Bowl, which resulted in Whyle having to wear a walking boot. He flirted with the idea of entering the 2022 NFL Draft, although he admitted that the injury eventually made the decision for him. During his 2018 freshman season, a preseason injury limited his impact for the Bearcats. As a result, He only played in four games that season before redshirting.
Josh Whyle Scouting Report
Pros
- Excellent Ability Overall As A Blocking Tight End
- Possesses A Good Catch Radius For The Position
- Solid Quickness To Execute Pull Blocks Behind The Line Of Scrimmage
Cons
- Lacks Polished Route Running Ability That Others In The Class Possess
- Adequate Explosiveness Off The Line Of Scrimmage Upfield
- Needs To Improve Consistency As A Pass Blocker
Josh Whyle is a three-year contributor at tight end for the Cincinnati Bearcats. Whyle has been a key piece in Cincinnati’s success in the running game by utilizing his blocking ability. He possesses good height and solid weight for the position when compared to the league average. His predicted 40 time of 4.61 is also good, as it’s a tenth and a half above the average.
He displays a solid ability to secure passes that are placed low. Has a good ability to adjust to passes that are behind or placed away from his body. Overall, he has a good catch radius for a tight end. Shows to have a good ability to execute run blocks when pulling from the H position. Displays a solid ability to create space as a lead blocker outside of the tackle box. Whyle’s ability to establish leverage and drive through the defender in space is good. He creates good drive and push at the point of attack as a lead blocker up the middle of the field. Displays a good ability to fight for additional yardage after the catch, even with defenders draped over him. Has a good ability to burst upfield once he’s through a hole with the ball in his hands.
However, he possesses adequate explosiveness to release quickly off the line of scrimmage. Further, he’s not a polished route runner, and as a result, has a tendency to round off some of his routes. Finally, he lacks a consistent ability to separate from the defender at the top of the route. He’s been utilized quite a bit as a blocking tight end. Thusly, has run a limited route tree in college. Displays an adequate ability to punch and stun defenders off the edge in pass blocking situations.
Josh Whyle NFL Draft Projection
Ultimately, I have Cincinnati TE Josh Whyle coming off the board as an early day-three pick, in the fourth or fifth round. He has excellent abilities as a blocking tight end, and was a pivotal blocker in Cincinnati’s run game. While his route running ability is still raw, I do believe that NFL coaches will be able to develop him into a serviceable receiver. However, I anticipate that he’ll likely come into an NFL franchise as a backup tight end.
The Tennessee Titans, as well as the Cincinnati Bengals would both be really good fits for Josh Whyle. Both of these teams have depleted depth at tight end, along with expiring contracts. More importantly, both franchises would do well in upgrading their run blocking.
