The New Orleans Saints are visiting with Nebraska tight end Thomas Fidone for a pre-draft visit. This was initially reported on Wednesday by Nick Underhill of neworleans.football.
Fidone has caught 61 passes for 633 yards and four touchdowns with the Cornhuskers over the last two seasons. In a deep class of tight ends in this year's draft class, Fidone is considered a late-Day 2 choice.
Here's a closer look at Fidone's collegiate career and draft profile.
Thomas Fidone, TE (Nebraska)
Nebraska Cornhuskers tight end Thomas Fidone II (24) fights for yards against the Boston College Eagles. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images
A four-star recruit out of Lewis Central High School in Iowa, Fidone was the second-rated tight end in the 2021 recruiting class. He'd ultimately commit to the University of Nebraska.
Fidone played only one game as a freshman in 2021 because of an ACL injury. Another ACL injury forced him to miss the entire 2022 campaign. Finally healthy in 2023, Fidone led the Cornhuskers with 4 touchdown catches and had 25 receptions for 260 yards.
In 2024, Fidone had even better production with 36 catches and 373 yards but did not score a touchdown. A three-time Academic All-Big Ten honoree, Fidone surprisingly declared for the NFL Draft after the 2024-25 season.
Nebraska Cornhuskers tight end Thomas Fidone II (24) scores a touchdown against the Louisiana Tech Bulldogs. Mandatory Credit: Dylan Widger-Imagn Images
Medical concerns are obviously Fidone's biggest red flags after two ACL injuries. His lean frame may also lead to some issues as an in-line blocker. He'll also need to improve his blocking technique to make up for a lack of strength at the point of attack. His narrow base often allows opposing defenders to win leverage battles.
As a receiver, Fidone too often gets hung up at the point of attack while getting into his route. He comes off the line too upright, giving defenders an easy target to disrupt him. He'll also need to show better recognition of zone coverage and more precise route breaks to give his quarterbacks a quicker target.
Fidone does show nice upside, particularly as a receiver. He doesn't have elite burst, but possesses good build-up speed and a long stride to pull away from defenders. He also has a terrific catch radius and outstanding leaping ability to grab off-target throws.
While rather inexperienced because of injury, Fidone has nice natural route running skills. He sells a pattern early, allowing him to get separation underneath. Once the pass is in the air, he has reliable hands and terrific ball control to pull in the catch.
Nebraska Cornhuskers tight end Thomas Fidone II (24) runs after a catch against the Northern Illinois Huskies. Mandatory Credit: Dylan Widger-Imagn Images
After the catch, Fidone has solid elusiveness in the open field to pick up extra yardage. His frame also allows for additional bulk without sacrificing athleticism, giving him more upside as an in-line blocker.
Thomas Fidone gets lost among a deep draft class of talented tight ends. However, he has the potential of a Day 3 steal.
Fidone's outstanding leaping ability, catch radius, and reliable hands could make him an immediate red-zone threat. His skills as a route runner and frame/willingness as a blocker gives him long-term starting potential.
