Athleticism:

An impressive looking tight end who is on the small side but is very muscular. Looks like a jacked wide receiver. Possesses great athletic ability and might be the most athletic tight end in this class. Has an elite burst for a tight end and is quick to get into his routes. Has the speed to be a threat down the seam of defenses. Lacks top end speed but still very impressive for a tight end and can separate with his burst.

Grade: 4.0

Hands:

Has a solid pair of hands and consistently shows he can pluck balls outside of his frame. He demonstrates above average body control and he’s good at adjusting to poor passes. However, has some problems with drops, particularly in traffic. He tends to let balls into his body when working through traffic which increases the chance of a drop. Fans can get frustrated with his ability to make tough catches and then drop relatively easy ones.

Grade: 3.0

Route Running:

Raw as a route runner. Rounds off a lot of his routes and doesn’t always get the correct depth. However, has the explosiveness to consistently create separation and can stretch the field. Doesn’t have trouble separating from most linebackers. Must work on making crisp cuts and not selling his routes.

Grade: 2.5

Blocking:

Although undersized, not bad as a blocker. Gives good effort. Will fire off the snap and try to get leverage. However, lacks the strength through his lower body to consistently generate a push. Has a tendency to hold players and must place his hands better to avoid penalties. Will whiff on blocks in space despite his athleticism and makes me question his awareness. Won’t ever excel as an in-line blocker but is perfect for an H-Back type role. Is effective when asked to seal and can be effective due to his athleticism and range.

Grade: 2.5

Intangibles:

A 3 year starter who started right away in his freshman season and was named to the Freshman All-American 1st Team. Has not missed a game due to injury and has no known off-field issues. In fact, regarded as a great leader and a high character player. Hard worker in the classroom and the weight room. Is part of the new breed of tight ends taking over the NFL. Can play in the slot and be successful. Similar player to Aaron Hernandez and can play in that role.

Grade: 5.0

Outlook:

Orson Charles is an undersized but athletic tight end who will fit in with the new role of receiving tight ends. Guys who can play in the slot and stretch the field. He’s perfect for that role as he has good range and solid hands. He’s a surprisingly good blocker as well, although he’ll never be a true in-line tight end. However, he’s a weapon who could exploit mismatches and turn into a very good receiving option. Worthy of a late 1st round pick.