Chicago Bears: 5 tight ends to replace Trey Burton

2. Brycen Hopkins, Purdue

One of the other options could come by way of the draft, and personally, I love this option. Brycen Hopkins was once talked about as arguably the best tight end in this year’s class, but after the NFL Combine, people cooled off a little bit.

The Combine showed off several other options, and many believe that there shouldn’t be a single tight end off the board within the first two rounds. Not to say none are good options, but none may be worth that high of a pick with talent available at other positions, too.

Hopkins, though, is a true receiving threat. The Purdue star possesses above-average athleticism and good enough speed (ran a 4.66 in his 40).

The best part about Hopkins is his feel for running routes. He is maybe the best route runner of all the tight ends in this class and has a knack for getting open. Above all other traits for a receiver or tight end to possess, I would argue that getting open is the most important.

Hopkins was utilized heavily at Purdue, especially last year when he caught 61 passes for 830 yards and seven scores. If there is one area he needs to improve, it’s his strength. But, he’s more of an athletic receiver type than anything, so his strength would be a bonus.