OT ANTONIO RICHARDSON, TENNESSEE*
6’6” – 327 lbs. – 5.30e
STATISTICAL PROFILE:
2011: 12 GP / 0 GS (OL)
2012: 12 GP / 12 GS (LT)
OVERVIEW:
Saw action in twelve games in a reserve capacity in 2011, primarily on special teams units, then took over as the team’s starting left tackle during his sophomore season, forcing eventual Miami Dolphins 2013 third-round pick Dallas Thomas to left guard.
STRENGTHS:
• Will graduate with two years of SEC starting experience at left tackle.
• Massive, possesses oustanding height, bulk, and length for a tackle.
• Forced third-rounder Dallas Thomas to shift to left guard last season.
• Has an outstanding anchor, can easily handle power/bull rushers.
• Is a quality run blocker, something of a brick wall when in position.
• Does a good job of attacking his opponent’s shoulder to control them.
• A little bit more nimble/laterally agile than expected given his size.
• Gets good arm extension, doesn’t let defenders get inside on him.
• Nice initial punch, can knock pass rushers off-balance with his power.
WEAKNESSES:
• May ultimately be better-suited to the right tackle position as a pro.
• Doesn’t offer much value to teams looking for zone-blocking personnel.
• Lumbers a little when asked to get to the second level, pull for screens.
• Overall awareness in pass protection can be questionable at times.
• Not quick enough to recover when beat to the inside on passing downs.
• Could be a little bit more active with his feet when blocking for runners.
• Exploited by South Carolina defensive end Jadeveon Clowney this year.
SUMMARY:
A two-year starter at left tackle for the Volunteers, Richardson possesses desirable height, bulk, and length for teams seeking an inline tackle. He is a relatively polished player, with above-average athleticism considering his size and effective mirror skills in pass protection, contributing as an efficient run blocker as well. Richardson may ultimately be relegated to the right side as a pro, and he must improve his awareness in pass protection and deal with the inside rush better, but is a pretty consistent blocker with rare size. RD 1-2