Hunter Long Fantasy Football Rookie Profile
A redshirt junior out of Boston College, Hunter Long has the tools to become a starting tight end in the NFL. He stands 6-foot-5, weighs in at 254 pounds and was showcased as a focal point of the Eagles offense in 2020. After trailing only Florida’s Kyle Pitts in receiving yards for tight ends this past season, Long is a player that needs to be on fantasy managers' radar, especially at a position that has long been barren in fantasy football.
College Production
In 2020, Long recorded career highs in receptions (57), receiving yards (685), and receiving touchdowns (five). He appeared in 26 games in three seasons with Boston College and amassed over 1,200 total receiving yards over that span. Long averaged over 14 yards per reception for his collegiate career and was voted to the All-ACC third team in 2020.
Film Review: Strengths and Weaknesses
A proven pass-catching option during his collegiate days, Long has the tools necessary to make an impact early in his professional career. His frame gives him the ability to box out defensive backs in contested catch situations. He is a capable pass blocker that will only help him stay on the field as he transitions to the professional game. He has very good hands and is a more than capable route-runner.
The biggest knock on Long is that he doesn't have the same type of athleticism as some of his peers. He is not the twitchy athlete the NFL craves at the tight-end position. Luckily, he makes up for that with reliable hands and will find himself playing time largely based on that fact. He is a steady, trustworthy option in the passing game who could very easily end up a young quarterback’s security blanket.
Landing Spot
The Miami Dolphins selected Long with the 18th pick in the third round, the 81st overall selection in the 2021 NFL Draft.
Fantasy Projection
We know the tight end position for fantasy football purposes can be a frustrating one at best sometimes. A landing spot for Long where he had a realistic shot to slide in as the top option at the position would have been ideal but he will still have opportunity with the Dolphins. Expect the Miami offense to open it up a bit more this season and after drafting Jaylen Waddle sixth overall they certainly have the speed to do so. With the first two rounds of rookie drafts being dominated by quarterbacks, running backs and wide receivers, Hunter Long is worth a gamble in round three as a developmental stash player for your fantasy roster.
QB | RB | FB | WR | iWR | TE | LT | RT | OG | OC | DT | NG | 3-4 DE | 4-3 DE | 3-4 OLB | 4-3 OLB | ILB | CB | iCB | FS | SS
