29 Jun Preseason Scouting Notes: Luke Farrell, TE, Ohio State

Senior | 6’6” 258 lbs | Perry, OH

A classic blocking tight end with good drive, edge setting ability, and a violent mentality

Overview:

Luke Farrell is entering his final season at Ohio State with 36 games already under his belt. While his receiving stats may not reflect a lot of playing time, he started all 14 games for the Buckeyes in 2019. An old school blocking or Y tight end, he is primarily used as another blocker in the run game lined up both in-line and on the wing. The former 4-star recruit looks to continue aiding QB Justin Fields in the run game, and to be more of a threat as a pass catcher in 2020. 

Strengths:

– Setting the edge with reach blocks
– Wham/Split Zone kick out blocks
– Works well in double team situations with OTs
– Generates good drive against stand up ends/linebackers
– Strong body control at the catch point
– Hard to bring down once he has the ball in his hands

Areas To Improve:

– Hands are a bit of an unknown due to lack of substantial targets
– Is not very sudden or crisp in his route running
– Not a bad athlete but lacks legitimate breakaway speed
– Occasionally plays with a high pad level when blocking
– Bends at the waist more than the knees
– Tends to throw a shoulder more than a punch when blocking

Injury Concerns:

N/A

Projection:

Farrell has the size and blocking ability to be a backup TE, but his true impact in the passing game being so much of an unknown is a concern at this point. When targeted, he tends to catch the on-target throws, but does not do anything to set himself apart as a pass catcher. He has always been primarily a blocker in the Buckeye offense, and is used almost exclusively on check down and underneath routes when he does leave his blocking post. Teams who need a 2nd or 3rd tight end will likely look to pick him up in the Day 3 range.

What To Watch In 2020:

The primary question surrounding Farrell is just how impactful he can be in the passing attack. Has he not been used because he isn’t a good receiving threat? Or is it more circumstantial along the lines of play calling preferences? While he has not stood out as a receiver, he has not necessarily done anything to warrant not giving him opportunities. His methods of getting open are limited, so he needs to work on his route running and shaving some ticks off of his 40 time. As a blocker he is experienced and simply requires some fine tuning in the small details, so that is something to keep an eye on.

Sales Pinckney

• Played 4 years of college football as a Defensive Tackle and Long Snapper at Division 3 Rhodes College.
• Experience in data collection/analysis/scouting for both Football and Baseball.
• Georgia native and firm believer that Georgia sports teams are cursed.