Advertisement

Scout’s view: Notre Dame’s newest commit, 2025 tight end Nate Roberts

michael chen
·3 min read
1

Although we are going to have a wait a few years to see Notre Dame’s newest commit Nate Roberts don the Blue and Gold, it was still a very big recruiting win for the Irish.

Roberts, will be a junior in high school this fall, his 2025 class still with two more seasons of football to be played at this level. The 6-foot, 4-inch and 230 pound tight end is viewed as one of the top players in the class, 122nd overall and the 5th best at his position according to the 247Sports composite.

There’s plenty to like about the second 2025 Irish commit and here is my scout’s view on what to Roberts brings to the table.

Upside

Scout’s view

As mentioned above, Roberts still have multiple years of high school football left, so there is time for him to continue to improve and grow into the position. His sophomore stats were extremely impressive, 33 receptions for 705 yards and 11 touchdowns. Roberts should continue to get better before he ends in South Bend and that is a scary proposition.

Receiver skills

Scout’s view

Roberts has a receiver skill set, lining up all over the field. He can play the slot and tradition tight end spots on the line. Regardless of where Roberts lines up, his ability to catch the ball with his hands stands out.

Red zone threat

Scout’s view

We have been spoiled watching Michael Mayer the last few season be a huge threat inside the 20 yard line and Roberts brings the same ability. His big frame poses an advantage over smaller defensive backs, he’s too fast for a linebacker in smaller spaces. Roberts can win jump balls in that area as well.

Blocking

Scout’s view

One of the key aspects for any Irish tight end is to be a good blocker. Roberts is solid at this stage of his high school career, but will need to get better. He will get stronger so that is a plus. His hands a great but since Roberts is asked to do more playmaking than blocking, he’s not quite as sound as we are accustomed to seeing. There is plenty of time for Roberts to improve in the area however.

Overall

Scout’s view

A huge get for head coach Marcus Freeman and tight end coach Gerad Parker. Roberts will give both of them plenty of options on formations with his expansive skill set. His film shows that he might be a bit faster than Mayer, and as athletic as Cole Kmet too. He will have to put it all together but it’s not out of the question. At this point it’s not easy to say if Roberts will see the field or not. So much can change until he arrives on campus, but what I do know is that the Irish got a top-level prospect.

[lawrence-auto-related count=5]

Contact/Follow us @IrishWireND on Twitter, and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Notre Dame news, notes, and opinions.

Follow Mike on Twitter: @MikeFChen

Story originally appeared on Fighting Irish Wire