Arik Gilbert 2023 NFL Draft Scouting Report

Background: 

• First TE to be Gatorade National Player of the Year since 1985

• Consensus five-star recruit 
• He caught 105 passes for 1,860 yards and 15 TDs as a senior

System: 

• Scheme tendencies: Pro Spread with multiple TE sets
• 2022 projected role: Tight End 

Pros: Arik Gilbert was a highly decorated and touted recruit, for good reason. He combines his tremendous size and build with athleticism to create mismatches defensively. He possesses the speed and stride to run past linebackers vertically and the frame to outmuscle safeties. He’s difficult to press and impede his progress. Gilbert has the power to fight through physicality. For a player of his size, he offers plus agility to operate on horizontal planes. The possibilities are tantalizing, as he aligns in-line, outside, and in the slot. The combination of ball skills and catch radius make it difficult to battle with him at the catch point. 

Cons: Arik Gilbert’s path to Georgia was not the smoothest. After transferring, he missed the 2021 season with the Bulldogs due to personal reasons. He has a tremendous set of physical tools, but his production does not paint that picture. The tight end room is crowded for the Bulldogs, leading to questions regarding target share. Their offensive philosophy is more run-oriented, also limiting potential targets. In 2022, Gilbert has the chance to put immaturity questions to bed and produce closer to his physical profile.

Arik Gilbert NFL Draft Scouting Report by Damian Parson