Chicago Bears NFL Draft: Player comparisons for tight end prospects

Isaac Nauta, Georgia

Player Comparison: Vernon Davis

Another potential day three add for the Bears, Georgia tight end Isaac Nauta has one of the highest ceilings out of any day three tight end prospect.

Last season at Georgia, Nauta made 30 grabs for 430 yards and three touchdowns. Georgia’s offense did not utilize the tight end position as much as in years past, but when called on, Nauta showed up big time.

That reliability that Nauta showed is a key element of his game and one that the Bears should value. Nauta could prove a valuable back up tight end when things aren’t going great on offense, as he is a great pass-catcher with big-play potential.

The three touchdowns as a starting tight end are not very good, but if Nauta were to be called on more in the Bulldogs’ offense, I’m sure that he would have put up bigger numbers, thus finding the endzone more frequently.

At 6-foot-3, Nauta is around the average size for a tight end but does not look to be a long-term starter, at least for now. Given his potential to grow, as shown in his big production in limited opportunities, I think that Nauta matches up well to Washington Redskins tight end Vernon Davis.

Davis was a reliable pass-catcher for many years with the San Francisco 49ers and has transitioned to a backup job as his career progressed. I think Nauta’s career could follow a very similar track, as I don’t think he will stay a starter long term, but he could become a reliable backup after a couple of productive seasons.