Patriots Draft Prospect: Illinois’ Tip Reiman Fills Need for Blocking Tight End

With the departure of Pharaoh Brown, the New England Patriots may look to Illinois tight end Tip Reiman as their future blocking tight end in the upcoming NFL Draft.

FOXBORO —The New England Patriots helped to solidify their tight end depth chart earlier this week by retaining the services of team captain Hunter Henry and signing free-agent veteran Austin Hooper. 

Having entered the new NFL year with only one tight end under contract — journeyman La’Michael Pettway — the Pats now employ three in their corps of tight endage heading into 2024. 

While both Henry and Hooper are best-known for their pass-catching prowess, neither one is particularly revered for his skills as a blocker. In fact, the Pats best blocking tight end from 2023, Pharaoh Brown, recently signed a free agent deal with the Seattle Seahawks. As a result, New England is likely to remain in the hunt for additional help at the position — especially in the upcoming NFL Draft. 

Patriots fans, meet Illinios tight end Tip Reiman.   

Cred: USA Today Sports Images

At 6-5, 271 pounds, Reiman defines the term “sizable, yet developmental” talent. Having begun his college career as a walk-on, the Rapid City, South Dakota native worked his way into earning team captainship in 2023. Last season, he caught 19 passes for 203 yards and three touchdowns in 12 games for the Illini. He aligned on 340 pass snaps, 111 in the slot and 211 in-line — where he brought his greatest value as a blocker. For his efforts, he was given an overall grade of 60.1 by Pro Football Focus. 

While Reiman possesses some potential as a situational, pass-catching Y tight end, his greatest impact at the pro level will be as a run blocker. His massive frame allows him to drive his blocks using leg strength from his first step to the point of initial contact. While his hand placement could use some development, his ability to take on double-teams and combo blocks should allow him to make an immediate impact while learning to block in space.

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Currently projecting as a Day 3 pick, Reiman has a blend of speed and strength which should keep him on the Pats’ radar in the coming weeks. For a prospect of his size, he exhibits great athleticism and agility, as evidenced by his running the 40-yard dash in 4.64 seconds at last month’s NFL Scouting Combine.  

In the final analysis, Reiman may be a raw prospect. However, he also appears to be exactly what the Patriots need at the position  — and should be available at a price they can well afford. 

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