3. Adam Trautman, Dayton
Adam Trautman is the top-rated rookie tight end on several boards, including that of FantasyPros analyst Kyle Yates. Pro Football Focus has him rated as second-best, citing his FCS production as the nation’s leader among tight ends in targets (95), receptions (70), and touchdowns (14). Per PFF’s Jeff Ratcliffe:
"While it’s always tricky to project small-school players for dynasty purposes, the fact that Trautman posted the second-highest single-season grade (94.2) among tight ends in the PFF College era bodes well for his long-term fantasy outlook. In case you’re wondering, the highest grade came from Dallas Goedert (94.9) in 2017."
That’s high praise, considering how talented Goedert proved to be in his second year with the Philadelphia Eagles last season, holding his own with Pro Bowl-caliber tight end and teammate Zach Ertz. The data aligns with the film in Trautman’s case, as there’s no denying his incredible athleticism:
Adam Trautman’s 6.78 3-cone was better than every WR except Mims.
— Jon Ledyard (@LedyardNFLDraft) February 28, 2020
There are no doubts that Trautman has proven himself to be a capable receiving option at the tight end position, and his upside for dynasty fantasy football owners is undeniable. What remains to be seen is how well Trautman can transition from FCS play to the NFL, especially when trusted with critical blocking assignments as an in-line tight end.