With the 98th pick of the 2009 NFL Draft, the Cincinnati Bengals select TE Chase Coffman, Missouri

With the 98th pick of the 2009 NFL Draft, the Cincinnati Bengals select Chase Coffman, Tight End from Missouri. For a position that turned out several all-stars in the past, the Cincinnati Bengals haven't had a legitimate pass receiving tight end for a long time. This is a good value pick, but we didn't identify tight end so much as a need this year (more along the lines of next season). However, there's only positives that can be drawn from this and the Bengals offense should benefit as a result.

Dan's Scouting Report:

Chase Coffman

6'6, 252 pounds | Missouri | Tight end

Strengths: Coffman has impressive size for a tight end. He uses that size to create space to get open. Coffman also utilizes great quickness off the line of scrimmage. A consistent prospect who routinely finds himself open. Possesses incredibly reliable hands and makes a lot of difficult receptions. Doesn't catch with his body. Runs excellent routes, much like a receiver. A strong athlete who rarely goes down on first contact.

Weaknesses: The biggest drawback in Coffman's game is his blocking inexperience. In Missouri's offense, he would often line up as a receiver and hasn't had to block much. Doesn't appear to have great speed and isn't a deep threat. Due to foot injuries the last two seasons, there are durability questions about Coffman. He was slowed during his senior year with turf toe and broke a bone in his left foot in the Alamo Bowl. Had offseason surgery following the 2007 season due to bone spurs.

Final word: Coffman will need to improve some as a blocker, but has the tools to become a great tight end. Coffman has been one of the nation's top tight ends since his true freshman season at Missouri. Chase's father, Paul, played tight end for 10 years in the NFL. Won the Mackey Award for a 2008 season in which he had 90 receptions for 987 yards and 10 touchdowns.

From Scouts Inc.