When Offensive Coordinator Jim McElwain was added to the Crimson Tide staff in replacement of Major Applewhite in 2008, it signaled the re-emergence of one of the mostly underused positions in collegiate football, the tight end.

McElwain’s offense doesn’t necessarily feature the tight end, but definitely utilizes the hybrid receiver/lineman as another offensive weapon to keep the defense honest. And it worked brilliantly throughout the 2008 season. With the offense pounding the ball off the left side behind Andre Smith constantly, the short pass to the tight end in the flats to the right of the line became wide open, and Seniors Travis McCall and Nick Walker took full advantage.

But with McCall and Walker now gone, the Tide must turn to Senior Colin Peek. Tide fans around the state are downright silly with excitement over this 6-foot-6, 245 pound transfer from Georgia Tech and the role he’ll take over in McElwain’s offense.

However, after Peek, the depth at the position drops way off. Preston Dial and Chris Underwood are the most accomplished relievers. Dial might not be dependable due to arthroscopic knee surgery he had last September.

So the Crimson Tide could use a good tight end or two in the 2010 recruiting class. There are 3 prospects currently on the Tide’s board, and it’s not out of the realm of possibility that Saban scores at least two of them.

Ethan Farmer - TE
Farmer possesses a strong lower body and can get off the LOS well. Because of his initial explosiveness out of the blocks, he projects well at defensive tackle as well. As a defender, he's able to shed blocks quickly and make solid tackles.

On offense, he maintains great balance when adjusting to the ball and has soft hands. He runs good routes and uses his lower body strength to establish solid blocks.

He has been quoted in the Tar Heel Times as saying the Tide is at the top of his list currently.

Harrison Jones - TE
Harrison is the little brother to current Tide Offensive Lineman Barrett Jones. Both are from Memphis, and both are mean as they come.

The younger Harrison is a solid tight end. He can make a bad quarterback look good with his ability to quickly adjust his route, and he has hands that are like crazy glue. He has a smaller frame for a tight end, but he has plenty of room to add bulk by hitting the weight room.

His block ability is average. His mechanics need some work, but he is not afraid to attack hard. Timid is the last word he should be described as.

Based on the fact that his father played for the Tide and his brother is currently on the Bama Squad, I'd say Saban has a pretty good chance at this kid.

Video

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8PadDCvaaZQ

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hl_B9r6v0mo

Brian Vogler - TE
Saban continues to raid Georgia's pantry for new recruits. One of the biggest is TE Brian Vogler.

Vogler possesses some unbelievable athleticism for a tight end. He has the mechanics of most blue-chip wide receiver recruits. He catches the ball well before the pads, and can maintain balance and catch balls over his head, making him also a solid downfield threat.

His blocking skills are above average, and he shows the ability to de-cleat on downfield blocks once he gets his 248lb frame moving.

As the Tide looks to keep the tight end heavily involved in their offensive schemes, look for significant mutual interest from both Vogler and UA.

Vogler has the option to also play collegiate basketball, so it is possible he'll go that route as well.

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Related Links:

Recruiting Outlook - Running Backs

Recruiting Outlook - Wide Receivers

Saban Sets Blistering Pace - Summary of 2010 Verbal Commitments

"Recruiting Central" Forum

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