Heath had 39 receptions as a rookie. James had 39 receptions last year, his first as a starter.
Let's not forget that Heath was a 1st rounder and James was a late round pick who was only 20 when drafted. Let's also not pretend like Heath was a top receiving TE. He only averaged 53 catches per season which is something James can deliver.
I never was comparing the two, I was pointing out the absurd statement that it took years for Heath to learn the position. Heath was the best TE coming out in 2005, and he IMMEDIATELY made an impact with his ability to catch and block. He wasn't some raw TE that needed to learn to catch or learn to block, he was already a solid all around TE.
Thanks tape....and I might add that as close as I can recollect...Heath wasn't exactly a blocking machine out of college.and he came in on a lowB repuS year.
Hey...I love me some Heath Miller but let's not lose our sense of reality here.
Again, your recollection is off. Best TE coming out, Best all around TE, immediately made an impact, and only improved.
Here's a pre draft write up on Heath. Again, I'm not comparing Heath and James, simply addressing what you seem to be forgetting about Heath, and how good he was.
Scouting Report: Heath Miller
Full Name: Heath Miller School: Virginia
Ht: 6-5 Wt: 255 40: 4.79
The Good: Big, strong tight end effective catching the ball as well as blocking for the passing or running game. Fluid releasing off the line of scrimmage, displays solid footwork running pass routes as well as adequate adjustment. Physically defeats opponents to come free, makes receptions with defenders draped on him and consistently catches the pass away from his frame. Heady, immediately picks up blocking assignments and displays excellent wherewithal. Strong at the point and gets movement from run blocks or anchors in pass protection.
The Bad: Runs well yet does not present himself as a tight end who makes plays down the field. Gathers into blocks. Does not display soft hands.
As for James, I think the "poor mans Heath Miller" is a pretty accurate statement. He's not super athletic or super fast, he catches the ball well, and is a decent blocker. Heath was very underrated and was the best all around TE in the game for years. James is a solid all around TE, he's definitely above average as an all around TE, and if he keeps improving maybe he can shed the "poor mans" part of the description for a few years. I like James, but lets not forget he's trying to fill some pretty big shoes.
