POSITIVES
— Very good straight-line speed. Effective as a field stretcher.
— Above-average YAC threat. Combination of speed and balance as a runner.
— Flashed the ability to drop his hips and change directions effectively on underneath routes.
— Willing and physical blocker in the run game. Brings it every snap.
— Effective pass protector. Does well to maintain his base and hold up in 1-on-1 scenarios.
NEGATIVES
— Limited route tree right now. Mostly a field-stretcher or manufactured YAC threat.
— Stiff route-runner, particularly on sharp in/out breakers to the intermediate area.
— Mediocre hands overall. Does not adjust to the ball outside his frame very well.
— Below-average length and strength limit his ability as a blocker despite good awareness and physicality.
OVERALL
Chigoziem Okonkwo boasts a unique blend of straight-line speed and intriguing blocking skills.
Okonkwo is on the smaller side for a tight end at 6’2″ and 238 pounds. That comes with its ups and downs, but it serves him well as a straight-line athlete.
At this stage, Okonkwo is not the smoothest or most natural mover in space, but he can fly when he takes off in a straight line. He regularly ran away from coverage on seam routes and deep crossers, consistently proving he could outpace linebackers and most safeties.
Okonkwo’s speed shows up with the ball in his hands, too. He can be effective on short drag or flat routes thanks to his speed and fairly impressive balance as a ball-carrier.
