Film Don't Lie | Nate Roberts
Another recruiting cycle, another early commitment from a blue-chip tight end.
That’s how Notre Dame does it every year. They get involved early with prospects and they end up closing on one of their top targets. This year it’s Nate Roberts, a top-five prospect at the position in the 2025 class.
Roberts has move tight end skills with complete tight end potential. I’m a big fan of this pickup for the Irish.
Height: 6’5”
Weight: 225
Projected Position: Tight end
ISD Grade: 92 (4-star)
National Average Grade: 91.5 (4-star)
What he does best:
If a tight end can’t win on contested catches in traffic, he can’t be successful in college football. Roberts checks that box and shows the ability to be reliable over the middle no matter how tight the window is.
He’s a threat after the catch. He can slip a defender in the open field, shows toughness fighting through tackles, and if given space, Roberts can do damage.
He’s much more than a big receiver. His effort as a blocker is outstanding and he’s versatile enough to be used in a variety of ways in the run game.
What he needs to improve:
He needs more functional strength as a blocker. The effort is there, but he’s much better blocking on the perimeter or walling off at the second level than at the point of attack.
He doesn’t have elite short area quickness and needs to refine his skills as a route runner. Michael Mayer didn’t have elite quickness either, but he was able to gain separation as an outstanding route runner.
What’s his ceiling?
It will be surprising to no one that Roberts has the potential to become one of the best tight ends in college football. He has a lot of room to add to his frame and should develop into an option that can be moved around to the slot, as an H-back, or play in-line.
His skill set reminds me a lot of former Notre Dame tight end Cole Kmet and I think Roberts is better than Kmet was at the same age. It’s a fantastic addition to the 2025 class and he should be a foundational piece for them to build around.
Who he could be:
Former Notre Dame tight end Cole Kmet
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