Scouting is a tricky proposition at most NFL positions, with plenty of busts even among first-rounders. One area where teams are really doing well is at tight end, which speaks favorably for Tyler Eifert's chances of NFL success.
Eifert was drafted by the Bengals at No. 21 overall, the 15th tight end selected in the first round this century. Almost all of the other 14 have worked out, emerging as productive pass catchers. There hasn't been a clear miss at the position, in fact, since Seattle selected Jerramy Stevens back in 2002 (and even he managed some reasonable production in a 9-year career). Eifert looks like a very safe dynasty pick.
Overall, 12 of the 14 first-round tight ends since 2001 have put up at least 700 receiving yards in a season at some point in their careers. All have had a season with at least 5 TD receptions (eight have had 7-plus in a season). Those tight ends, and their best yardage and scoring seasons, are presented below.
First-round TEs, 2001-
Year Yd(Best) TD(Best)
2013 ??? ?? Tyler Eifert, Cin.
2010 737 6 Jermaine Gresham, Cin.
2009 777 5 Brandon Pettigrew, Det.
2008 815 5 Dustin Keller, NYJ
2007 843 8 Greg Olsen, Chi.
2006 700 10 Marcedes Lewis, Jac.
2006 965 13 Vernon Davis, S.F.
2005 816 8 Heath Miller, Pitt.
2004 1106 5 Kellen Winslow, Clev.
2004 763 6 Benjamin Watson, N.E.
2003 1106 11 Dallas Clark, Ind.
2002 894 7 Jeremy Shockey, NYG
2002 554 5 Jerramy Stevens, Sea.
2002 409 7 Daniel Graham, N.E.
2001 855 7 Todd Heap, Balt.
--Andy Richardson