Jamel Howse

Physical Profile

Possesses an excellent frame for a modern tight end, standing at 6-foot-4 and weighing around 240 pounds. He reportedly added significant mass between his junior and senior seasons, showcasing a projectable build that can continue to add good weight. At a combine in April 2024, he was measured at 6-foot-3, 215 pounds with an impressive 83-inch wingspan and ran a 4.68 40-yard dash and a 4.37 shuttle. This athletic testing at a lighter weight points to his potential for speed and agility, even after bulking up. His background in basketball and track and field further underscores his overall athleticism.

Play Style

On film, Howse is utilized as a versatile receiving tight end, lining up both in-line and split out wide. He demonstrates good hands and the ability to make plays down the field, as evidenced by his sophomore year statistics. His size and athleticism make him a red-zone threat and a reliable target on third downs.

Strengths

• **Frame and Catch Radius:** His 6-foot-4 height and an 83-inch wingspan create a large target for quarterbacks. His basketball background is evident in his ability to high-point the football and win contested catches.
• **Receiving Production:** Howse was a consistent receiving threat throughout his high school career, with his most productive season coming as a sophomore when he tallied 36 catches for 789 yards and nine touchdowns. He followed that with 34 catches for 412 yards as a junior and 46 catches for 613 yards and five touchdowns as a senior for a 12-1 team.
• **Athleticism for the Position:** A 4.68-second 40-yard dash and a 4.37-second shuttle at 215 pounds are strong indicators of his speed and change-of-direction ability. This athleticism makes him a mismatch for linebackers and a threat after the catch.

Areas to Improve

• **Blocking Technique:** As with many high school tight ends who are primarily receivers, his in-line blocking will require refinement. Continued strength development will be crucial to handle collegiate defensive ends and linebackers.
• **Route Running Nuance:** While a productive receiver, he can continue to develop the finer points of route running, including creating separation at the top of his routes and setting up defenders.

College Projection

Howse projects as a starting-caliber "F" or move tight end in a modern spread offense. He has the potential to be an impact player early in his career due to his receiving ability. His development as a blocker will determine if he becomes an every-down player. He initially committed to South Carolina before decommitting and ultimately signing with Appalachian State.

NFL Outlook

Given his four-star rating in the 247Sports composite rankings and his athletic profile, Howse possesses the upside to be a future NFL Draft selection. His continued development, particularly in his blocking and route running, will be key to reaching that potential.

Best Fit

A program that utilizes the tight end heavily in the passing game and employs a pro-style or spread offense would be an ideal fit. His commitment to Appalachian State, led by former Power Five offensive coordinator Dowell Loggains, aligns with this, as Howse has publicly stated a desire to be in an offense where he is targeted frequently.