Washington Football Team training camp profiles: Tight End

LANDOVER, MARYLAND - OCTOBER 20: Jeremy Sprinkle #87 of Washington looks on against the San Francisco 49ers during the first quarter in the game at FedExField on October 20, 2019 in Landover, Maryland. (Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images)
LANDOVER, MARYLAND - OCTOBER 20: Jeremy Sprinkle #87 of Washington looks on against the San Francisco 49ers during the first quarter in the game at FedExField on October 20, 2019 in Landover, Maryland. (Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images) /
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LANDOVER, MD – NOVEMBER 24: Jeremy Sprinkle #87 of Washington looks on against the Detroit Lions during the second half at FedExField on November 24, 2019 in Landover, Maryland. (Photo by Scott Taetsch/Getty Images)
LANDOVER, MD – NOVEMBER 24: Jeremy Sprinkle #87 of Washington looks on against the Detroit Lions during the second half at FedExField on November 24, 2019 in Landover, Maryland. (Photo by Scott Taetsch/Getty Images) /

Jeremy Sprinkle

Experience: 4th season

Draft Status: 2017 fifth-round pick, 154th overall

2019 Stats: 16 games (13 starts), 26 catches, 241 yards, one touchdown

2020 Outlook: Considering that Sprinkle is coming off a career year, there has been relatively little buzz about the four-year Washington tight end. The reason for that is simple.

While Sprinkle was able to set career highs in every major statistical category, still one thing stands out about him. He’s not a natural pass catcher. He doesn’t have great hands and has issues getting open. However, his huge frame (6-5) and strength (255 pounds) make him a very effective blocker and that’s where he was at his best in 2019. He figures to continue to fare well in that category in 2020.

Expected Role: Sprinkle is probably in the lead for Washington’s blocking tight end role. He would complement Thomas’ receiving ability well and can catch the occasional pass. But with more time to focus on blocking, he could make a big impact in the running game.

Status: Sprinkle isn’t a roster lock, but he’s on the inside of the roster bubble right now. He has a high floor compared to the other options on the team because of his blocking prowess, and that’s something that Ron Rivera will value. Sprinkle could be beaten by some younger players if they show potential, but for the time being, he should be favored to make the roster.