The 2025 NFL Draft has begun to take shape, particularly among tight end prospects. Friday's drills and testing provided valuable insights into the athletic capabilities of these players, significantly influencing their draft stock. Teams are on the lookout for versatile and impactful talent at this position, where athletic thresholds play a crucial role in determining future success. Some players have solidified their status as top-tier prospects, while others have raised concerns about their potential at the next level.

Emerging Stars: Terrance Ferguson and Joshua Simon

Two tight ends emerged as standout performers following Friday's workouts. Terrance Ferguson from Oregon showcased exceptional athleticism, placing him among the elite prospects. His impressive build and efficiency last season further enhance his appeal to NFL teams. Meanwhile, Joshua Simon from South Carolina also made waves with his robust performance, hinting at hidden potential that could elevate his draft prospects.

Terrance Ferguson's performance was nothing short of remarkable. He achieved second-highest athleticism scores among tight ends, excelling in vertical jump, 40-yard dash, and 10-yard split drills. Standing at 6-foot-5 and weighing 247 pounds, Ferguson's physical attributes, combined with his impressive metrics, suggest significant potential at the professional level. His strong efficiency last year—ranking high in yards per route run and receiving grade—makes him a promising Day 3 selection, possibly even earlier. On the other hand, Joshua Simon's combine performance was equally compelling. Posting percentile marks above 78th in critical tests, Simon demonstrated exceptional athleticism. His performance in yards per route run and yards after catch per reception last season adds depth to his profile, making him a potential late-round gem for teams looking for value.

Falling Short: Gunnar Helm and Harold Fannin Jr.

Not all tight ends fared well during the combine. Gunnar Helm from Texas and Harold Fannin Jr. from Bowling Green faced significant challenges, raising doubts about their draft prospects. Helm's poor performance across multiple drills cast a shadow over his previously promising film, while Fannin Jr.'s underwhelming 40-yard dash time may limit his appeal to NFL scouts.

Gunnar Helm's combine performance was a stark contrast to his on-field potential. With disappointing results in the 40-yard dash, vertical jump, and 10-yard split, Helm's draft stock is likely to plummet. Despite his solid film, these metrics could render him undraftable in fantasy formats. Before the combine, Helm was projected to be selected around the 87th overall pick, but now he risks falling to the end of Day 3 or later. Similarly, Harold Fannin Jr.'s performance left much to be desired. Expected to run closer to the 4.6s, Fannin's actual 4.71-second 40-yard dash time and lack of elite speed may push him outside the first three rounds. His "tweener" status complicates his draft outlook, potentially leading to a lower selection. The divide between the top three tight ends and the rest of the class has widened, intensifying competition for teams seeking premium talent at this position.