As small of a role he played this season, I wanted to shout out some love for one of my favorite, under-the-radar Bills. His ability in the passing game is sneaky. His measurables wont shock anyone and, in fact, may appear disappointing. I do believe him to be a good route runner and a reliable, trusted target. His numbers have improved each season in both yards and catch percentage. To me, he has carved a little niche as a reliable South Team TE.
As far as his blocking goes, he has to be better. I can blatantly remember him as the occasional perpetrator of blown assignments, most notably in pass protection.
Any idea why Nasty No Glove Nick has struggled in the blocking game? Is it due to his unimpressive numbers and his inability to keep up with the big boys? Or is it more of being out of position or technique flaw, that is correctable?
Entering 2018 as a ERFA, I'm hoping the Bills will make him an offer to keep him around for a while.
Btw, did you know he went to Harvard? Or something like that...
https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/O/OLeaNi00.htm