Brian Linthicum Scouting Report

Linthicum is a late-round tight end prospect with a solid all-around game that lacks a noteworthy, game-changing ability that would otherwise push him into higher consideration.

After a promising true freshman season at Clemson University, Linthicum transferred to Michigan State. In his following three years, his role and production did not exactly blossom. A promising Pro Day performance and all the Senior Bowl practices will likely ensure that Linthicum isn't passed over in the 2012 NFL Draft.

Linthicum's best asset are his hands. Locating the ball and catching it away from his body are definite strengths. He lacks that second gear athleticism to stretch the field. What he can do is find the soft spots in the zone and shows a good feel for route running.

As a blocker, he needs work. Since he lacks the natural talent to be that No. 1 TE, he's going to need to learn how to improve his technique and core strength. He doesn't have a natural bend and gets caught playing high and and lunging at defenders outside his reach. This causes a lack of balance and ineffective push.

Linthicum can learn how to improve his blocking and will need to demonstrate he's willing to work hard and improve in order to stick in the NFL.