Drew Sample Taken 52nd Overall by Cincinnati Bengals

Drew Sample was drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals with the 20th pick in the 2nd round (52nd overall). Sample becomes the most highly drafted UW tight end since Austin Seferian-Jenkins was taken in the 2nd round 38th overall in 2014.

This was a major surprise to just about everyone who prepared for the NFL Draft as no one thought that Sample would go before the 4th round where fellow UW Tight End Will Dissly went last season. Sample was the unsung hero of the Husky offense last season playing more snaps than any other skill position player and providing a safety blanket as a receiver and a fantastic option blocking in the run game.

He’ll join ex-Husky John Ross as a part of the Bengal pass catching group who has had a disappointing start to his career. Cincinnati has had a major need at tight end for a few years now as Tyler Eifert has been a dominant player when healthy; he’s just never healthy. Sample will give them dependability and when combined with their first round pick it appears they’re emphasizing the ability to protect the QB and open holes for Joe Mixon with this draft.

Congrats to Drew and we look forward to seeing him represent the UW in the NFL for many years to come!