49ers’ 2018 ‘Who Is?’ series: Tight end Cole Hikutini

Niner Noise’s 2018 “Who Is?” series on San Francisco 49ers players takes a look at a talented-yet-raw tight end, Cole Hikutini, and his projections for the upcoming season.

The San Francisco 49ers figure to have two of their likely three tight end spots set for the 2018 season, held down by veterans Garrett Celek and George Kittle.

With most NFL teams carrying at least three tight ends, however, the No. 3 spot on the depth chart appears to be wide open for grabs.

Second-year tight end Cole Hikutini has an excellent chance to seize this opportunity this offseason. After being selected as an undrafted free agent in 2017, Hikutini spent the first few weeks of his rookie season before making the 53-man roster in October last year. Before landing on injured reserve the following month, Hikutini managed to appear in four games, logging two receptions for 15 yards.

But his collegiate accolades at Louisville in 2015 and 2016 stand out:

Provided by CFB at Sports Reference: View Original Table
Generated 6/1/2018.

These numbers are what drew the Niners to taking a flier on Hikutini. He has solid pass-catching abilities, and his 6-foot-4 and 247-pound frame are ideal for the position.

Hikutini ran a 4.85 40-yard time at his pro day, which isn’t anything electric. Yet he moves well in space, further pushing the idea he can be a reliable target in the passing game.

Will these traits be enough to crack the 53-man roster in 2018, though?

Let’s take a look.

Why Cole Hikutini Improves in 2018

It’s safe to say Hikutini’s chances were limited last season. Former Niners veteran tight end Logan Paulsen already locked down the No. 3 spot for most of the year last season, keeping Hikutini on the periphery.

Not known for his blocking abilities coming out of Louisville, Hikutini does have the ability to work some wonders within head coach Kyle Shanahan’s offense. According to Pro Football Focus, 69 percent of Hikutini’s targets in 2016 were on hitches, out routes or crossing routes. These are staple pieces to Shanahan’s scheme, which bodes well for the tight end’s chances.

And if he can polish up his blocking (it’s not unusual to see rookie tight ends struggle early in this aspect), Hikutini should stand a good chance to make some serious strides this season.

Why He Regresses

Versatility is key for most players buried deep on the depth chart. Hikutini, meanwhile, appears to be little more than a “one-trick pony” at this stage of his career. He’s decent over the middle and can find seams within opponents’ defenses. But that pretty much sums up his positive attributes.

San Francisco 49ers

PFF also pointed out how Hikutini isn’t exactly the best route runner either, which decreases his chance to make a serious impact in 2018.

The lack of blocking abilities further negate the reliability factor as well. As noted earlier, depth tight ends need to have this in their collective “tool box.” And Hikutini has yet to flash this part of his game.

Chances of Making the 49ers’ 53-Man Roster in 2018

Hikutini is anything but a lock for this season. At best, he’s somewhere between the strong and weak bubble.

Currently, the Niners are carrying five tight ends on their 90-man offseason roster — the two others being veteran Cole Wick and the undrafted rookie, Ross Dwelley.

These two names are Hikutini’s primary competition in training camp. Both Hikutini and Dwelley have practice squad eligibility, so it’s possible the loser(s) of this camp battle wind up being stashed for the upcoming season.

Much of it will hinge on the former Louisville product’s ability to improve in blocking, as well as establishing himself as a better route runner in Shanahan’s system.

Next: Thoughts and news on 49ers OTAs so far

If those two aspects improve noticeably this offseason, look for Hikutini to lock down that No. 3 spot.