NFL Draft Profile: Daniel Bellinger, Tight End, San Diego State Aztecs
#88
Pos: TE
Ht: 6047
Wt: 253
Hand: 1018
Arm: 3248
Wing: 7658
40: 4.63
Bench: 22
3-Cone: 7.05
Shuttle: 4.47
Vertical: 34.5
DOB: 9/22/00
Eligible: 2022
Las Vegas, NV
Palo Verde High School
Daniel Bellinger
San Diego State Aztecs
One Liners
“A pure blocking tight end that has the receiving baseline to be a depth piece in a tight end room.
Pros:
Desirable size and length at six-foot-six 255-pounds. Bellinger was used heavily as a blocker, at San Diego State, he comes off the ball with good pad level. Keeps himself square to defenders as a blocker and attacks their chest. Works to the second level well, keeps his eyes in a good spot. Finishes blocks with aggression at times. Showed off good tackle breaking ability after the catch, worked his off-hand against defenders. Solid hands, catches the easy ones.
Cons:
Lacks speed and overall athleticism to be dynamic in the NFL. Sluggish throughout his release. Wasn't used as a passing option often, route running is lacking. Touches were scheme open and didn’t run many routes downfield. Doesn't have the necessary power at the point of attack for his size. Too stiff to be a consistent receiving threat on routes, won’t be able to separate. Isn't explosive enough to win at the catch point and high point downfield.
Summary:
Bellinger has been a force in the Aztec running game for the past four seasons. At his size, he is almost used as a sixth lineman in this offense. Doesn’t show overpowering strength, but isn't afraid to attack defenders straight on and uses good technique. He hasn’t become much of a receiver in the Aztec offense, but was effective on schemed open touches. He can give offenses a safety valve out of heavy formations. Being a physical player will help him get on the field for special teams as well.
Background
From Las Vegas, Nevada and graduated from Palo Verde High School. Was a two star recruit and had interest from Cal, Navy, and UNLV. In his 2017 season, Bellinger totaled 21 catches for 371 yards and three touchdowns in nine games on offense. As a linebacker on defense, he tallied with 131 tackles, 10 tackles for loss, and three sacks. Didn’t see much action in 2018. In 2019, he had 15 catches, 201 yards, and three touchdowns. Was an eight game starter in 2020, posted 21 catches for 203 yards. 2020 Honorable Mention All-Mountain West. In his senior season, put up 31 receptions, 357 yards, and two touchdowns. A senior bowl invite for 2022.
Grades
6.3/6.7
Latest News:
NFLPA Collegiate Bowl Watch: For the second consecutive year, San Diego State’s Daniel Bellinger was named to the John Mackey Award Watch List, which annually recognizes the nation’s most outstanding tight end. Also for the second consecutive year, Collegiate Bowl scouts are anxious to evaluate the 6-6, 255-pounder after the Las Vegas native stood out with his impressive blend of blocking and receiving production. In the mold of a traditional “Y” tight end who typically aligns inline and is asked to block defensive linemen, Bellinger is an excellent blocker who the Aztecs enjoy running behind due to his ability to latch onto targets and sustain his blocks with his proficient footwork and bend. No slouch in the receiving game, the 24-consecutive game starter provides a very reliable target for the quarterback due to his soft hands and then knows how to pick up extra yardage after the catch with his athleticism and physical playstyle. (08/21/21)
*Go All Access - Subscribe to NFL Draft Bible today and receive a one-year subscription to Sports Illustrated the magazine, for FREE!
NFL Draft Prospects to Watch
The Mock Draft Simulator by Mock Draft Database
Watch the show LIVE on Twitch
Pro Football Free Agent Database
2022 NFL Draft Position Rankings
Hundreds of prospects ranked and updated throughout the season. Stay updated on all the NFL Draft eligible players and where they could go in the draft.
Scouting Reports
Fantasy Football Rankings
Check out the latest and greatest, most up-to-date, fantasy football rankings. No one has the most comprehensive and accurate rankings when it comes to fantasy football than the NFL Draft Bible.
