Rookie tight ends rarely have breakout seasons in their first year in the league. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers were not concerned with that fact when they selected O.J. Howard as their first-round draft pick. The former Alabama big man did not disappoint. Howard caught 26 passes for 432 yards and six touchdowns in 2017. He finished the season in the top 20 for receiving yards among tight ends. Howard also matched teammate Cameron Brate and fellow rookie Even Engram of the New York Giants in touchdown scores.
O.J. Howard looks to build on a solid rookie campaign in 2018
The Bucs’ top draft pick exceeded expectations in his rookie season. Now, Howard looks to really breakout in 2018.
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Howard did have some weak spots this year. He did not blossom in the passing game until mid-season. The 19th-overall pick also struggled with his blocking duties early. Howard missed the final two games of the season with an ankle injury.
Looking ahead to 2018
Expectations are high for Howard entering 2018. He, like many of his teammates, needs to get healthy this offseason. The Bucs have a lot of depth in the passing game and Howard will have to fight for looks from quarterback Jameis Winston. They hope he can build on his rookie outing and help take some of the load off Brate in the middle.
Fantasy slant
Howard flew under the radar this season as many owners are leery of rookie tight ends. He played rather well though, so he should be a much hotter pick in the 2018 draft. Howard should sit on the board until the late middle rounds. If he is available pass the 10th round, consider him a steal next season.
