Notre Dame’s Tommy Tremble could finally fill the need for a second tight end

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We continue our tradition of profiling an NFL Draft prospect every day in April, leading up to the NFL Draft on April 29th. Every day, you’ll get a prospect profile that includes how they would fit with the Kansas City Chiefs.

Since the Chiefs allowed tight end Demetrius Harris to walk after the 2018 season, the team has been trying to fill his shoes. But they haven’t been able to replace either his production or the potential mismatch he presents to opposing defenses. It wasn’t because the team didn’t try; the Chiefs have continually been linked to various tight ends in both free agency and the draft. Despite the drop in production, the Chiefs have continued to play roughly the same percentage of 12 personnel — that is, two-tight end sets — so it’s time to fix the hole once and for all.

Tommy Tremble, tight end

Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports

6’3” | 241 lbs | Notre Dame

Johns Creek, GA

Expected draft range: Day 2

Pro Day: 4.6 40-yard dash, 36.5” vertical jump, 122” broad jump, 20 bench press

One-sentence bio: Played in a rotation in a loaded tight end room at Notre Dame, earning a significant role during the past two seasons.

One-sentence scouting report: A dominant lead blocker who is even better blocking in space — and possesses an incredible amount of untapped potential as a receiver.

One play:

How he fits in Kansas City: On a team with a stacked tight end group, Tremble was often utilized as a throwback tight end in Notre Dame’s offense; with so many options, Tremble was often used as a blocking tight end — despite his elite athletic profile.

He excelled in that role, quickly emerging as one of the best blockers in space — if not the very best. His raw athleticism — combined with his power and a nasty playing style — allowed him to dominate in the running game.

For the past few years, the Chiefs have been searching for a tight end to play alongside Travis Kelce — one whose presence would allow Kelce to continue to be flexed into the slot more often. Tremble’s ability to play as an in-line blocker, H-back or a fullback would allow the offense to threaten from multiple levels, creating mismatches in every area of opposing defenses.

At this point in Kelce’s career, the Chiefs also have to start considering the future. While they may never find another player like him, there will still have to be some kind of succession plan — and it often takes time for tight ends to develop. This is where Tremble becomes extremely appealing. He can step in Day 1 as a great blocking sidekick — but his athletic traits give him quality starter-plus upside. He very much looks to be on a trajectory like George Kittle. As a receiver, Tremble needs to improve his route running and feeling for space — but his explosive nature and his ability to change directions leads one to think he can be coached into those skills.

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