As tight ends continue to develop and change their role in the NFL, guys coming from college have to show that they can be multifaceted in their approach to the game. Luke Lachey has shown a multitude of traits that can help his game translate to the next level, both on the field and off the field. His frame, while lean, is very well built to handle the rigors of a full NFL season.
His athleticism shines on the field, as you can see the former basketball/track & field skills translating well to the gridiron. His off the field pedigree also carries NFL prowess as well, with his father being a former all-pro tight end in the NFL.
He has also received numerous academic accomplishments over his storied time at Iowa, including being named a Big Ten distinguished scholar, and making both the President’s List and Dean’s List.
Coming from Grandview Heights High School in Grandview Heights, Ohio, Luke was a multi sport athlete, including a state medal in the 4×400 relay as well as in the high jump. Upon enrolling at Iowa, he redshirted his first year in 2020, and then saw an increase in his snaps and opportunities over the next few seasons.
In 2021, Luke saw 3 starts and 13 games, and caught 8 passes for 133 yards during that stretch. 2022 saw another significant jump in production, starting in 6 of 13 games he appeared in, and racking up 28 catches for 398 yards and 4 touchdowns. 2023 ended early due to a leg injury that sidelined him for the season, but not before he added 10 catches for 131 yards in the small sample size.
Player Info
Name: Luke Lachey
Jersey: No. 85
Position: Tight End
School: University of Iowa
Class: Senior
Height: 6-foot-6
Weight: 247 lbs.
Luke Lachey’s Strengths
Luke is the new wave of tight ends, as he excels in the pass game. He shows exceptional catch radius and body control for a man of his size, and constantly wins on the sidelines and up the seams as well. He possesses an NFL ready frame, with the ability to add muscle mass on without sacrificing speed/agility.
His biggest strength is he often displays a natural feel for separation at the top of his routes, and using that athleticism to gain separation from opposing linebackers and safeties. He’s also a high character talent, with the academic awards he’s received, it shows a work ethic and that he’s very coachable at the next level.
Luke Lachey’s Weaknesses
While he is athletic, he does lack the elite speed and explosiveness you’d see from tight ends in today’s game, which could mean getting even craftier to scheme him open.
While he is a willing blocker in the passing/running game, his technique will need some refinement at the next level, as he often struggles to maintain consistent leverage vs edge rushers. The ankle injury in 2023 could lead to questions about his durability, but he has had stayed healthy for the most part of his career.
Draft Projection
Currently, I have Luke Lachey as a top 50 prospect in this class, and is currently my top tight end available in the 2025 NFL Draft. He fits the mold of new wave tight ends who are a weapon in the passing game.
He would fit in well with a team that has a need for a pass catcher at tight end, that is willing to block when needed, but know that his strength is through the air. Some teams I’d look at for Luke:
- New York Jets
- Tampa Bay Buccaneers
- Indianapolis Colts
Ultimately, I think Luke is the best tight end of the class, and should be a first round selection. However, with other needs more pressing for teams, he could see his stock fall to Day 2. I fully expect him to be gone by pick 50, and whoever selects him will get a top tier tight end for the next 7-10 years.
