OT Connor Williams, Texas*

6’5″ – 296 lbs. – 5.05

Started all twelve games at left tackle as a freshman, and then eleven at the same spot the following season. Was limited to just five games played as a junior after sustaining a knee injury which required surgery, but nonetheless declared for the draft. Very thickly-built offensive tackle prospect with good weight distribution. Plays the game with an aggressive temperament and a good work rate. Was asked to do a lot of blocking on angles. Generates pretty consistent push on rushing attempts. Extends his arms – although length appears just average – and uses a strong grip to sustain blocks. Keeps his feet churning after contact and works through the whistle. Flashes the nastiness to finish opponents when he gets the chance. Does a good job of attacking the outside shoulder in order to collapse the edge. Not freakish, but is athletic enough to hook opponents or climb to the second level and successfully engage linebackers. Can be seen downfield seeking out targets on screens, and was often called on to cut opponents in both the running game and the passing game. Has the best pass sets and mirror skills in this year’s class. Was often left alone on an island against an opponent’s top pass rusher and achieved very consistent results. Knee-bender who keeps his back straight and avoids overextending. Has a controlled kickslide and the short-area quickness to handle speed, although opponents rushing from wide alignments may give him some trouble. Doesn’t appear to have particularly impressive length, but gets what extension he can and benefits from his overall size and thickness. Has a strong, accurate punch and good hand use, keeping them inside and controlling interactions. Sound anchor; doesn’t get walked back into the passer by opposing bull-rushers. Technique can sometimes deteriorate if he’s forced to handle wide rushers, as he is quicker in a short area than he is an elite athlete. Junior-year knee surgery will need to be examined at the Combine. If that checks out, stands a good chance of being the top offensive tackle prospect off the board, with a well-rounded, polished, and consistent game as both a run blocker and pass protector. Game resembles Jake Matthews, who went sixth overall back in 2014.

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