Summary

Drew Sample was selected in Round 2 (#52 Overall) of the 2019 NFL Draft out of the University of Washington. A former high school wide receiver who transitioned to tight end, Sample was a key contributor in Washington’s run-heavy, pro-style offense. During his collegiate career, he totaled 74 receptions for 655 yards and 3 touchdowns, earning Honorable Mention All-Pac-12 honors and gaining a reputation as one of the top blocking tight ends in the country. At the NFL level, Sample has oddly-enough carved out a defined role as a blocking-oriented tight end and offensive utility player. Through the 2024 season, he has appeared in 80+ career games, contributing modest receiving production while serving as a core piece in run-game execution, pass protection, and special teams.

Strengths

• Run Blocking: Strong, technically sound blocker who seals edges and sustains contact. Can align in-line, H-back, wing, or motion roles..

• Physicality: Brings toughness and effort at the point of attack. Plays hard snap-to-snap with consistent competitive demeanor.

• Football IQ: Understands assignments, leverage, and defensive fronts.

• Pass Protection: Reliable helper against edge pressure and effective as a chip blocker.

Weaknesses

• Receiving Ceiling: Despite being a former high school wide receiver, shows a limited route tree and separation ability. Functional but not a natural contested-catch finisher.

• Top-End Speed: Not a vertical or seam-stretching threat and does not stress coverage schematically, needing the team to invest in move tight end options such as Noah Fant and Mike Gesicki.

• YAC Ability: Minimal elusiveness after the catch.

• Draft Slot vs. Production: Receiving output has not matched second-round expectations.

Outlook

Sample is best suited for physical, run-oriented offenses that prioritize tight end blocking, formation versatility, and protection reliability. He thrives in systems that utilize multiple tight end sets (12 or 13 personnel), allowing him to function as an extension of the offensive line while still offering functional outlet value in the passing game. His presence enables offenses to disguise run/pass intent and execute downhill concepts more effectively. Looking ahead, Sample projects as a high-end TE2 or TE3 whose value is rooted in blocking, toughness, and role clarity rather than receiving production. While he is unlikely to develop into a featured pass catcher, his reliability, intelligence, and willingness to do dirty work give him a long career arc as a complementary tight end. Teams that value physical identity, situational execution, and professionalism will continue to view Sample as a useful, winning-role contributor.