San Francisco 49ers: Who Is The Answer At Tight End?
By Dan Fappiano
Oct 19, 2013; Knoxville, TN, USA; South Carolina Gamecocks tight end Rory Anderson (81) leaps over Tennessee Volunteers defensive back Cameron Sutton (23) as he rushes for yardage during the second half at Neyland Stadium. Tennessee won 23-21. Mandatory Credit:
Jim Brown-USA TODAY Sports
Anderson was the second rookie right end San Francisco drafted. He obviously went much later than Bell, slipping all the way to the seventh round and the 254th overall pick.
He has all the makings for a stud tight end down the line. Standing 6’5″ and weighing 244 lbs, Anderson has ideal size to play the position in the NFL. Anderson also has great arm length. His 32 1/4″ arms are comparable to that of offensive tackle Joe Thomas(32 1/2″).
Anderson also has great athleticism working in his favor. He is extremely quick at the position and is able to expose defensive backs down the field. Not many tight ends hold the speed to be burners and become a deep threat. That speed and athleticism might allow him to see early season targets.
His downfall though, comes in the health department. Anderson tore his triceps in the spring and then tore his biceps in the other arm in September. His lingering tricep injuries are what led to his fall to the seventh round.
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The 49ers might have lucked out though, and if he can stay healthy, Anderson could be a seventh round steal. His athleticism makes him a good “stash-and-see” prospect and the Niners may have found an offensive piece of the future.
Anderson needs to bulk up and improve some pass catching skills, but he still has great potential. Much like Bell, Anderson is more of a long-term prospect rather than a plug and play immediately type player.
Anderson will most likely have to start his career on the practice squad or in a minimal type role. He will learn under Davis and given some time, he and Bell can form a dynamic duo at tight end.
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