NC State 2018 Football Position Preview: Tight Ends

Thus far we’ve previewed the Quarterbacks, Running Backs, and Wide Receivers. As we continue previewing each position group leading up to NC State’s season opener against James Madison on September 1st, next up is the Tight Ends.

The Starter

It was somewhat of a shock to see Redshirt Freshman Damien Darden (6’3″/255) claim the starting job heading into Week 1 vs. James Madison. Both Redshirt Sophomores Dylan Parham (6’5″/236) and Dylan Autenrieth (6’4″/242) saw playing time in 2017, but Darden jumped ahead of them with his first chance at seeing the field.

Darden is bigger than Parham and Autenrieth, but he didn’t just win the job due to his size. He is comfortable with his hand in the dirt, but he’s also comfortable being pushed out wide. Darden is a solid route runner, and can put it into another gear when the ball is in his hands. He also played defensive end in high school, and has a nasty side to him, and is tough as a run blocker and pass protecter.

The coaches love Darden and think he has a high upside.

The Starter in Week 4

Don’t get it confused. Darden is the starter in Week 1, but when Week 4 rolls around, and Redshirt Sophomore Cary Angeline (6’7″/254) is available, the job is his.

Whether it has been Coach Doeren, Quarterback Ryan Finley, or Tight Ends Coach Faulkner, they haven’t been able to stop singing Angeline’s praises this Fall. Doeren said he’s probably the most versatile guy they’ve had. Faulkner said he can be as good as anybody.

Did I mention that he’s 6’7″?!?

A guy with his height, his hands, speed, athleticism and nimbleness is any quarterbacks best friend.

Angeline was the Offensive Scout Team Player of the Year at Southern Cal his Redshirt Freshman season. It’s not everyday you see a Tight End earn that honor.

I think you are looking at a future All-ACC Tight End in Angeline, and he will be a major part of the Wolfpack’s offense by seasons end.

The 2’s

You have to love the depth at the Tight End position. Both Parham and Autenrieth saw solid playing time last season as Redshirt Freshmen. Autenrieth saw 167 snaps, while Parham saw 36.

While Darden won the job in Week 1, until Angeline is eligible in Week 4, except these guys to get some burn in a rotation.

Both showed they could be proficient blockers last season, but even though they didn’t get the chance to show it last year, they were talented receivers in high school (Autenrieth didn’t record a catch, and Parham had 1).