NFL Draft Player Profile: Jay Rome

Jay Rome first came to the glorious college town of Athens, Georgia as an Under Armour All-American, the 7^th rated player in the state of Georgia, and the #5 rated tight end in the 2011 recruiting class.  Five years and 38 career receptions later, he departs for the NFL with only a slim hope of hearing his name called.

Rome’s Georgia career started off very well.  Serving as a backup to senior starter Arthur Lynch, he played in all 14 games in 2012, catching 11 passes and two touchdowns, including one in the SEC Championship Game versus Alabama.  It was a nice first year in Athens, and hopes were high that Rome would follow in the footsteps of fellow UGA standout tight ends Randy McMichael, Ben Watson, Leonard Pope, and Lynch.

However, injuries, newcomers, and offensive scheme changes eventually halted Rome’s progress.  2013 saw his season cut short due to injuries.  In 2014, freshman Jeb Blazevich burst on the scene as the primary tight end.  And in 2015, well, let’s just say ol’ Brian Schottenheimer isn’t any of the UGA tight ends’ favorite coach.

Rome’s numbers at UGA Pro Day were underwhelming, running a 4.92 40 yard dash and posting 14 bench reps at 225.  However, his 6-6 250 lbs. frame does offer NFL coaches something to work with.

Prior to the 2015 season, Rome was considered to be a late round pick.  Now, he’ll most likely sign with a team post-draft and prove his worth at the next level at a rookie mini-camp.