Jake Briningstool is a senior tight end from Clemson University, standing at 6’6″ and weighing between 230-240 lbs. His height gives him an advantage as a receiving threat, but his lean frame may be a concern for his blocking abilities at the NFL level. Briningstool’s hand size (8.88″) falls below typical NFL thresholds for the position, which could impact his ability to make catches in traffic.
2025 NFL Draft Scouting Report: Jake Briningstool, Clemson
College Production
Briningstool’s college career at Clemson showed steady improvement over four years:
- 2021: 3 receptions, 67 yards, 1 TD
- 2022: 25 receptions, 285 yards, 4 TDs
- 2023: 50 receptions, 498 yards, 5 TDs
- 2024: 49 receptions, 530 yards, 7 TDs
His senior year performance tied the Clemson single-season record for receptions by a tight end with 50 catches. Briningstool’s consistency and growth in production demonstrate his development as a reliable target in Clemson’s offense.
Receiving Skills
Briningstool’s primary strength lies in his receiving abilities. He possesses smooth route-running skills that resemble those of a big slot receiver rather than a traditional tight end. His short-area quickness and separation ability make him a mismatch for linebackers and safeties in coverage. Briningstool displays good body control and a wide catch radius, allowing him to make plays downfield and in the red zone.
He has shown the ability to recognize defensive coverages and settle into weak spots, particularly in the middle of the field. Briningstool’s football IQ and route-running tempo allow him to operate effectively in timing-based offenses.
After the Catch
While not particularly elusive, Briningstool can use his size and strength to gain yards after the catch. He’s more likely to win one-on-one situations through power rather than agility. His long strides and build-up speed can lead to potential explosive plays when he finds open space.
Blocking
Blocking is an area where Briningstool needs significant improvement. He is more effective when blocking from a flexed position against smaller defenders or when using short motions to crack down on linebackers. His in-line blocking against defensive ends is a weakness, which may limit his usage as an every-down tight end in the NFL.
Hands and Concentration
There are some concerns about Briningstool’s hands and catching technique. He has shown a tendency to be a body catcher, which, combined with his smaller hand size, could lead to concentration drops. Improving his hand catching and consistency will be crucial for his success at the next level.
NFL Projection
Briningstool projects as a developmental flex tight end in the NFL. His receiving skills and mismatch potential make him an intriguing prospect, particularly for teams looking to add a pass-catching threat from the tight end position. However, his limitations as a blocker and concerns about his frame may impact his draft stock.
He could find success in an offense that utilizes him primarily as a big slot receiver or move tight end, taking advantage of his route-running and ability to exploit mismatches against linebackers and safeties. Briningstool’s red zone production in college (17 career touchdowns) suggests he could become a valuable target in goal-line situations.
Areas for Improvement
- Blocking technique and strength, especially in-line blocking
- Consistency in hand catching to reduce body catches and concentration drops
- Adding bulk to his frame without sacrificing speed and agility
- Improving yards after catch ability, particularly in making defenders miss in space
Draft Projection
Given his skill set and areas for improvement, Briningstool is likely to be selected in the middle rounds of the 2025 NFL Draft. His receiving potential and production at Clemson will attract teams, but concerns about his blocking and frame may prevent him from being an early-round pick. A projection as a 5th round selection seems reasonable, with the potential to move up if he impresses in pre-draft workouts and interviews.
Conclusion
Jake Briningstool enters the 2025 NFL Draft as an intriguing tight end prospect with clear strengths as a receiver and route-runner. His size and ability to create mismatches in the passing game will appeal to NFL teams looking for a flex tight end or big slot receiver. However, his limitations as a blocker and concerns about his frame and hands may impact his draft position and immediate role at the next level.
With proper development and coaching, Briningstool has the potential to become a valuable receiving threat in the NFL, particularly in offenses that emphasize pass-catching tight ends. His success will likely depend on landing with a team that can maximize his strengths while allowing him to develop his weaknesses, particularly his blocking skills. As he transitions to the professional level, Briningstool’s route-running, football IQ, and red zone productivity could make him a useful offensive weapon, even if he doesn’t immediately step into an every-down role.
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