Carolina Panthers: 5 tight end draft prospects that could replace Olsen
By Dean Jones
Stephen Sullivan – (LSU)
Stephen Sullivan was part of the LSU Tigers’ team that secured a National Championship during his final college season. He is definitely a work in progress and one that is worth considering in the later rounds.
Sullivan projects to be a late-round selection with some upside as a pass-catching tight end. He is going to have to work on his physicality if the player wants his time in the NFL to be prolonged.
He has good hands and demonstrates the sort of athleticism that is sure to make him an enticing proposition for any team that takes him in the upcoming draft. Sullivan is the sort of project that NFL coaches love working with.
If the player can improve his ability to make catches under pressure, then this is going to further aid him with his transition to the NFL. Another area of his game that needs refinement is his route running, which fails to create separation on a consistent basis.
Although it would be foolish for the Carolina Panthers to expect instant production from Sullivan. Having the player sit and learn what it takes to be an NFL tight end while Ian Thomas is giving the opportunity to make the No.1 spot his own would be great for his long-term development.
With a little coaching up and some experience in specialist situations, Sullivan is a player definitely worth considering.