As attention begins shifting toward the 2027 NFL Draft class, ESPN draft analyst Jordan Reid recently highlighted a prospect outside of his top five tight ends who could make a significant jump this season. That player was Lawson Luckie.
According to Reid, Luckie has climbed to the top of Georgia’s tight end depth chart and is expected to take on a much larger role in the Bulldogs’ offense. While his production has been modest to this point, Reid believes the former Georgia tight end has breakout potential because of his versatility and ability to contribute in multiple areas.
Luckie has experience lining up in-line, in the slot, and detached from the formation, giving offensive coordinators flexibility in how they deploy him. Reid noted that he can function as a receiving threat while also holding his own as an in-line blocker.
The statistical production has yet to fully catch up to the opportunity. In 2025, Luckie recorded 15 receptions for 152 yards and four touchdowns on 26 targets. However, the underlying numbers suggest there is room for growth. The year before, he hauled in 24 catches for 348 yards and three touchdowns while averaging 14.5 yards per reception.
His blocking profile may be just as intriguing as his receiving upside. According to PFF, Luckie logged 317 blocking snaps in 2025 and earned a 64.6 run-blocking grade. He also allowed just one quarterback hurry across 42 pass-blocking opportunities while posting a 100.0 pass-blocking efficiency rating.
Those traits fit the mold of the modern NFL tight end. Teams increasingly value players who can remain on the field in any situation rather than specialists who only contribute as receivers or blockers.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers currently have stability at tight end with Cade Otton, but prospects like Luckie are worth monitoring as the 2027 draft cycle begins to take shape. If he capitalizes on his opportunity as Georgia’s top tight end this season, he could quickly move from intriguing sleeper to one of the most talked-about players at the position.
This article originally appeared on Bucs Wire: A TE prospect in the 2027 NFL Draft that Bucs fans need to watch
Reporting by Mason Riney, Buccaneers Wire / Bucs Wire
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By Mason Riney, Buccaneers Wire | USA TODAY Network
