6’4” – 309 lbs. – 5.00
Four-year starter who started three games at guard as a redshirt freshman, and nine at left tackle; reprised his role as the team’s blindside protector for the remainder of his career. Fairly thickly-built collegiate left tackle with shorter length than usual for the outside, which is why he’s being projected as a candidate to slide inside to offensive guard. Looks a little bit narrower in his hips than ideal. Was often asked to block on an island against opposing right defensive ends. Did a pretty good job of mirroring and protecting the edge at the college level but may not have the lateral quickness to get appropriate depth versus pro speed rushers on the edge. More of a controlled, fundamentally-sound kickslide than one which covers a ton of ground. Able to extend his arms and place his hands as a pass protector, with enough lower-body strength to anchor against the defensive ends he was matched up against. Handles counter-moves well. Plays with a good seat and rarely lunges or bends at the waist. Good awareness; almost never allows free rushers to be schemed into the backfield untouched. Very consistent on a snap-to-snap basis. Plays the game with a competitive temperament. Has the short area quickness to set up inside and wall defenders off from rushing attempts. Wasn’t really asked to pull with much frequency but has enough speed to get up to the second level and successfully engage linebackers. Good leg drive after engaging defenders to create push; works hard through the whistle to drive opponents off their spots, although he may lack the functional power to create much push against pro defensive tackles. Exhibits the killer instinct to finish his blocks when given the opportunity. Physicality is more impressive than his grip strength. More issues with balance in the run game than as a pass protector. Proved at the Combine that he has the athleticism to play against pro competition, ranking among the leaders at his position in the forty-yard dash, bench press, cone drill, and broad jump. Might be the most consistent, polished offensive lineman in this year’s draft class, but will need to answer questions about how well he’ll be able to handle pro competition and how he’ll be able to transition to another position on the offensive line. The consensus seems to be that his best pro position would be guard, although it wouldn’t be a shock to see a team give him a chance to play tackle.
DRAFTEXAMINER 