If the 2018 season wasn’t enough to prove that T.J. Hockenson has a bright future in the NFL, perhaps his showing at the scouting combine a month ago convinced the doubters. And if that’s not enough, perhaps some words from Todd McShay will change your mind.

Hockenson has been regarded as one of the top tight ends — if not the top tight end — in the 2019 draft class. His breakout year at Iowa followed by an incredible showing at the combine in Indianapolis essentially secured his spot as a first-round selection.

McShay, though, doesn’t just think Hockenson is a great tight end. He believes he’s one of the best prospects in the entire draft class this year.

Through his mock drafts, McShay has the Detroit Lions selecting Hockenson with the No. 8 pick in the NFL Draft. While the draft expert acknowledges that might be a little high, he truly thinks that Hockenson is every bit as good as the hype.

“I just think T.J. is one of the 10 best players in this draft,” McShay said on a conference call, according to Kyle Meinke of MLive.com. “I know they haven’t had great success drafting tight ends early…but I just think he’s one of the most complete players in this draft.”

Hockenson totaled 49 receptions for 760 yards last season, leading the Hawkeyes in both categories. He also hauled in six touchdown grabs which ranked second on the team.

Iowa has become well known for producing great talent at tight end, and will likely have two taken in the first round of this year’s draft with Hockenson and teammate Noah Fant turning heads.