Jake Briningstool Scouting Report

By: Michael Higgins

(Image courtesy of David Jensen/Getty Images)

School: Clemson

Class: Senior

Position: TE

HT: 6’6

WT: 241 lbs

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Background: Jake Briningstool was a top 3 tight end in the class of 2021. He was the highest ranked player in Tennessee and a consensus 4-star recruit. Jake is from Brentwood, Tennessee and went to Ravenwood High School. He was a finalist for Tennessee Mr. Football. He was a First Team All-District selection as a junior and a First Team All-Tennessee as a senior. Briningstool helped lead Ravenwood to the state playoffs each year, including a state championship appearance as a junior. Jake was a member of the PrepStar 150 Dream Team and was also selected to play in the Under Armour All-American Game. Jake Briningstool committed to Clemson over Oregon, Tennessee, Michigan, and others.

College: Over his stint with the Clemson Tigers, Briningstool has been a solid blocking tight end but did not put up the receiving numbers that were expected of him when he signed. He managed to total 285 yards in 2022 and has improved every season. In 2023, Briningstool took a step and recorded 50 receptions for 498 yards and 5 touchdowns. He put up similar numbers in 2024 with 49 catches for 530 yards and 7 touchdowns. Both of these campaigns earned him All-ACC Third Team honors.

Strengths: Briningstool is an athletic tight end that moves well for his size. He has a next gear that he can get to when running in the open field. His speed combined with his size makes it very hard for defenders to bring him down to the ground. He also does well to stay on his feet through contact. His contact balance is elite, and he is always going to survive initial contact. He creates a matchup nightmare for defenses as linebackers are too slow while safeties are too small. Briningstool has strong hands and can bring down any ball even with defenders all over him. He is just as big of a threat down the field as he is close to the line of scrimmage. He tracks the ball well and has put together a collection of impressive catches.

Weaknesses: Briningstool is a dense player, but he is not the best blocking tight end. If he wants to stick with a team in the NFL, he is going to have to improve as a run blocker. He is more of a receiving tight end who is still looking to establish some consistency as a pass catcher. Briningstool looks like he can be a productive NFL tight end. He will definitely be a project player as he is still developing his ability as a consistent pass catcher, even though that would be considered his strength. The only way he is going to see the field frequently is if he improves as a blocker.

Conclusion: Jake Briningstool can bring a lot to a 12 personnel offense. He would thrive in an environment where he is not relied upon to be the bread winner of the offense. His blocking upside will give him an opportunity to get on the field quickly.

Scheme Fit: 12 personnel

Ideal Role: Developmental Backup TE

Best Team Fits: TB, MIA, IND

Player Comparison: Brock Wright

Player Grade: Round 5 (59.6)