Scouting Report: Weaknesses

• Lacks play strength in the lower body, affecting his ability to win against stronger defensive ends as an in-line blocker.
• Displays choppy steps as a route runner, leading to predictability and less efficiency in route execution.
• Shows inconsistency in sink and burst at the top of routes, potentially limiting separation against NFL-level talent.
• Struggles with contact balance, making it challenging to stay on his feet through tackle attempts.
• Upper body strength needs improvement, evident in run-blocking where he sometimes fails to sustain blocks against defenders.

Scouting Report: Summary

Jared Wiley enters the NFL Draft with a skill set that flashes potential for versatility and impact at the pro level. His frame, catch radius, and ability to snag contested throws position him as a viable red-zone threat and a mismatch option against smaller DBs in the seam. Wiley's alignment versatility and fluidity in space highlight his potential as a chess piece in an offensive coordinator's playbook. However, his tape also reveals areas for growth, particularly in the trenches. His run-blocking technique and leverage need fine-tuning to hold up against the stout run defenders in the NFL trenches.

The evaluation of Wiley’s transition to the NFL brings to light the quintessential tight-end dilemma: the balance between being a potent offensive weapon and a functional blocker in the run game. His natural receiving abilities—evident in his soft hands and body control—are tempered by the need for enhanced play strength and more sophisticated route-running savvy to elude pro-level linebackers and safeties. Teams will weigh his immediate value as a pass-catcher against the developmental curve required to round out his in-line blocking and route precision.