The best NFL fit for Georgia tight end Arik Gilbert in 2023 NFL Draft

At 6-foot-5, 253 pounds, Georgia tight end Arik Gilbert is one of the most physically imposing tight ends in college football this season. It comes as no surprise that many draft experts are expecting his name to be called during the first round of the 2023 NFL Draft.

Pair him up with Patrick Mahomes in the league, and the Kansas City Chiefs could have their next longterm tight end in Gilbert.

“Travis Kelce isn’t a spring chicken — he turns 33 this fall, and his cap numbers start escalating rapidly thereafter. Even if he does have more years in him, getting a talent like Gilbert in the fold to learn from Kelce is a long-term win,” Pro Football Focus’ Michael Renner wrote. “Gilbert was the highest-rated TE recruit ever, as he moves just like a wide receiver despite being 250 pounds. He’s had his fair share of off-field issues, though, that included missing all of last season for personal reasons.”

Georgia fans didn’t see Gilbert suit up last season after his transfer from LSU. Instead, he showed a glimpse of the help he’ll provide in the receiving game for fan at the annual ‘G-Day’ Spring Game with three receptions for 49 yards and two touchdowns.

But how is Bulldogs head coach Kirby Smart going to let Gilbert earn his share of production while surrounded with what most perceive as the most talented tight end ground in the country?

Brock Bowers is back as the team’s top receiver after an 882-yard, 13-touchdown 2021 campaign but the other tight ends can also factor into the offense when healthy. With that much talent emerging at one position, it’s hard to distribute minutes when injuries arise and other players step up in their place.

“The first key is keeping them all healthy,” Smart said. “Darnell [Washington] this time last year had a foot injury. Arik’s had some injuries in his past. Brock had shoulder surgery. So the first thing you’ve got to do to have depth, you’ve got to have depth so that you can compete and really have guys fight for that playing time. But those three guys are really good.

Darnell Washington – another UGA tight end – wasn’t available to start the 2021 season due to his foot injury but still have a lot of potential based on his status as a former five-star recruit despite limited first two seasons in Athens.

With a litany of stars lining up beside the tackles at Georgia this season, Gilbert will have his hands full finding consistent minutes on the field, but will be a handful for opposing defenses when he gets going, so it’s no wonder his NFL potential is through the roof.