6’4” – 308 lbs. – 5.19
Five-star recruit who played in thirteen games as a freshman, then started two of nine games the following year, both starts coming at left tackle. Became the full-time starter at right tackle in his junior year and reprised that role as a senior, totaling twenty-four starts over two years. Shorter than your typical offensive tackle, measuring just 6’3.5” at the Combine; this has led many to anticipate that he will be sliding inside to guard at the next level. Does, however, have very long arms measuring 34.75”. Looks massive on tape, with good thickness through his body. A plus athlete with good power; flashes the ability to dominate as a drive-blocker in the run game. Athletic enough to get out in space and successfully engage linebackers. Has a tendency to lower his head into contact and overextend; would be better-served by playing within his frame. However, once he engages, demonstrates good natural power and leg drive to walk back opposing defensive ends. Would like to see a more consistent effort to get both of his hands high and inside; even executed a one-armed block during the games reviewed and can tend to coast on his natural gifts. More powerful than he is nasty and doesn’t always capitalize on opportunities to finish his blocks with pancakes; finishes too many snaps as a spectator. For a more thickly-built lineman, looks nimble, with the lateral quickness to mirror opponents once he’s engaged. Pass sets look good; bends at the knees and keeps his hands ready to strike at the chest plate. However, can get overeager to initial contact, causing him to lean toward his opponent and lose the leverage battle. Can struggle to reset his hands against counters; looked very susceptible to spin moves (see Stanford game his junior year), where he can often be placed on his heels. Has sustained wrist and ankle injuries and was suspended as a sophomore after violating team rules; dealt with a hyperextended knee as a senior. One of the more intriguing mid-round candidates in this year’s offensive line class, measuring in at under 6’4” may force him to slide inside but has the type of thickness, natural power, and movement skills to develop into a starter. However, that will require him to play with more consistent aggression, balance, and hand placement. Something of a boom-or-bust candidate.
DRAFTEXAMINER 