Scouting Journals for Jelani Thurman

Tall, long tight end with one of the larger catch radiuses in the 2023 cycle. Measured at 6-foot-6, 227 pounds with a 6-foot-11 wing-span prior to his senior season. Has elite length for the position, with very long arms. The length shows up by way of the large catch radius. Has the reach to attack the ball at its highest point or scoop up low throws off the ground. Shows strong hands to finish through contact in contested situations. Makes high level grabs at a rate that is among the best of 2023 tight ends. Moves well, showing the quickness to separate though he’s still developing as a route-runner. Turned in a strong performance in 1-on-1’s at Under Armour’s Atlanta camp. Also plays basketball, where he shows the ability to throw down some impressive dunks. Plays in-line at times for his high school and shows a willingness as a blocker. Needs to continue adding to his lower body strength which will aid the ability to break tackles after the catch. Both parents were professional athletes - father Odell Thurman was a linebacker at Georgia and a second round pick by the Cincinnati Bengals. Mother Kara Braxton played basketball at Georgia and went onto be a WNBA all-star.

Jelani Thurman flashed his massive catch radius in his Fairburn (Ga.) Langston Hughes’ team’s win over Spartanburg (S.C.). The 6-foot-6, 225-pounder easily reached over an opposing defensive back for an outstanding high-point touchdown grab on a jump ball. We also saw Thurman play some defensive end throughout the night. He made an eye-catching play on that side of the ball, chasing the ball carrier down the line and finishing with some violence.

Jelani Thurman was borderline dominant in 1-on-1’s during the morning session at Future 50. The 6-foot-6, 225-pounder regularly broke off what was a fairly overmatched linebacker group. Thurman was not heavily targeted in 7-on-7 action but did come down with a nice grab over the middle of the field. The Fairburn (Ga.) Langston Hughes product is a smooth mover with refined routes relative to other tight ends. Thurman is deliberate and confident as a pass catcher. His near 7-foot wing-span contributes to a large catch radius.