If they don't go TE in round 1 but still want one, there's CJ Fiederowicz of Iowa who might be available in rounds 2-3. Fiederowicz is more the classic TE who's as comfortable throwing blocks around as catching passes. He's more in the mold of a Tony Gonzalez or Antonio Gates than a Jimmy Graham or Finley. With a new found power running game in Lacy, having a TE who can block at the line of scrimmage and the next level shouldn't be undervalued.
CJ Fiedorowicz, TE, Iowa
Edit: C.J. Fiedorowicz
Originally Posted by: Mucky Tundra
I like this line of thinking. If we are drafting a TE, I would prefer one who is adept at blocking, the complete package, rather than a speed guy who will take three years to develop blocking skills and size.
Part of the beauty of the TE position is that the player at the position can stay in and effectively block, or work the field as a receiver. There is a deception component that defenses have to account for. Without the ability to adequately block, the player becomes one dimensional, ala Finley up until recently. Sure, defenses have to account for the large, fast receiver component, but rarely have to account for the possibility he may block on a running play. Might as well draft a tall WR in that case.
That is why I like Andrew Quarless so much. I believe Quarless is more of a complete player at TE, and gives the offense a bit more for defenses to account for because of his blocking skills and his size, along with his abilities to make plays in the open field with the ball.
Personally, I would much rather have a top S than a TE at this point. I think Safety needs to be our #1 priority this offseason.