Ben Koyack TE Notre Dame #18
Wt: 254
Size/Athleticism: Prototypical size. Solid overall build but lacks dominant strength. Athleticism is fairly ordinary. Moves very mechanically and won’t create consistent separation, but he does have decent acceleration. Not a threat after the catch.
Separation Skills: Speed is only average but his routes are crisp. Makes sharp cuts and shows good start-and-stop ability for his size. Strictly a possession receiver, but shows the ability to create separation on quick routes and use his body as a shield from defenders. Experience from the slot, in-line and h-back slots. Intermediate routes are efficient but he simply lacks the explosion to run away from man coverage.
Ball Skills: Reliable hands and shows ideal technique. Extends his arms and quickly secures the ball.
Blocking: Does not have elite strength but stays low and plays with good leverage. Not a finisher, but more of a bend-but-don’t break blocker.
Intangibles: Only one year of starting experience, having played behind Troy Niklas and Tyler Eifert. Played a lot of fullback in 2013, with Niklas at tight end.
Durability: No known issues.
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Overview: Koyack only has one year of starting experience under his belt, having primarily lined up as a fullback prior to taking over for Troy Niklas in 2014. Notre Dame didn’t take full advantage of his skills as a receiver, so he’s a candidate for substantial growth at the next level. However, he lacks the elite athleticism to ever be a go-to guy in the passing game and also lacks the dominant blocking skills to stay on the field as a true three-down player. Unlike many recent Notre Dame tight ends, he’s a receiver first and a blocker second. While he can do a little bit of everything, he doesn’t really excel anywhere, which probably makes him better suited for a backup role.
