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2012 Draft
OFFENSIVE TACKLES

Matt Kalil 6065 306 USC (Arm: 34½)

Combine: 4.99 Forty| 30 Reps| 27.0 VJ| No BJ. 7.33 3C| 4.65 20Sh |

Pro Day - Solidified himself as the player who will be the first non-quarterback drafted in April during Southern California’s pro day on Wednesday. Kalil’s arms measured at 34 5/8 inches, good for a 80 1/8-inch wingspan. He stood on everything he did at the NFL Scouting Combine, and I believe that this draft will mark the first time in league history that one school has had two offensive linemen picked in the top 10 in back-to-back years. Tyron Smith was picked ninth overall by the Cowboys last year.

BRS (Gollin) – Probably will be long gone by the time we pick at #13, but write-ups suggest he’d fit the bill perfectly and might be worth trading up a few rungs to get. A lot will depend on how the guys rated behind him grade out.

Pro Football Draft Guide   Physically has everything  teams look for in a pass protector. That’s enough to make him the first OT off the board. Quality LT prospect with the requisite length and athleticism but sometimes slow to react.

From nfl.com - Undisputed top tackle prospect. An early-entry junior. Has all the physical tools to achieve success at the next level and has continued to develop his game technically throughout his career. NFL pedigree (Dad played semi-pro/ brother, Ryan, is a Pro Bowl center. Should be the first lineman off the board and could easily be a top-five pick.

Kalil is tall with an impressive frame he carries well. Equally thick and strong from his upper body down through his thighs, and has thin calves and ankles (which suggest he’s a light-footed mover). Explodes off the ball every snap and gets to his destination point with ease. Will provide a punishing first blow to keep his man off balance in the run game, and is very comfortable getting to the second level to fit on backers. Has a very technically sound kick step in pass pro and slides very smoothly. NFL-ready in terms of using hands de-cleating potential.

Some concerns about how well he can anchor and stall bull rushers (given his tendency to play upright). Limited level of knee bend could be a concern. Rarely snaps his hips through as a run blocker and is more of a mirror/positional blocker. Should work on his knee bend and flexibility to handle the more explosive ends at the next level.

ESPN (Scouts, Inc.) - Strong combination of size and athleticism as a blind-side protector. Prototypical LT feet, bends naturally at the knees and plays with balance. Quickly gets into sets and can ride speed rushers past the pocket with long arms. Uses a strong punch and has shutdown strength once he gets into proper position. Has the lateral mobility to slide and mirror to stay in front of rushers. Can sink and anchor to counter effective bull rushers. Only time he gets into trouble is when he oversets or lunges.

Strong and powerful inline run blocker who moves defenders off the ball. Above-average quickness with first step and lateral movements /consistently gets into proper position. Sometimes will initially engage with too high of pad level but quickly resets and regains leverage. Balanced /is rarely seen on the ground. Excels as a second level blocker. Good timing and angles coming off of combo blocks / easily engulfs LBs. Above-average athlete pulling in the open field and adjusting well to cover up targets.

Instinctive / appears to have a thorough understanding of assignments. Slightly better as a run blocker than in pass pro. Quickly locates and indentifies target in the run game. Can adjust on the fly against defensive line movement. Patient in pass sets and does a nice job of staying at home to pick up twists. Only concern in pass pro is that he was late picking up defenders from the third level a few times.

It's obvious he takes pride in his craft. Plays with an edge and works to sustain blocks. Has a nasty side and is not afraid to mix it up. Will finish when given the opportunity.

Jonathon Martin 6053 312 Stanford (Arm: 34)
Combine: Didn't participate in any drills.

Pro day  — Martin ran the 40-yard dash in 5.27 and 5.43 seconds. He notched a 30-inch vertical, an 8-8 broad jump, a 4.68-second short shuttle and a 7.69-second three-cone. Martin had 20 strength lifts, with arms that measured 34 1/8 inches. The parents of the likely first-round pick both went to Harvard and practice law.

Mayock Pre-Senior Bowl Position Rank: 3.

BRS (Gollin) – He's been flying below the radar in many Top 10 mocks. (Maybe we'll get lucky and he'll fall into our laps at #13). The sense I get is that he’s sounder in pass pro and the mental aspects of the position than Reiff, but is more a smart, athletic technician than he is a street-fighter. If the Cards are looking for a LT, I’d rate him slightly higher than Reiff, but if we were looking for someone to become our starting RT, I could see us rating Reiff a tad higher.

PFW Scout's Candid Comment - "I don't like Martin. He is soft. I don't think he's the athlete he's made out to be. He's goiing to be drafted in the first round. I would take him in the fourth. I would like to play against him. I hope he comes to our division."

Pro Football  Draft Guide – Safe pick to become a starter and has LT qualities but his less-than-elite athleticism and power will limit his upside. Big, steady NCAA  LT who can run block, but has some limitations in pass pro.

From nfl.com - One of two tackle prospects in this year's class who could be considered elite. Aggressive, smart, technically sound Stanford product prospect who should be able to contribute immediately.

Has prototypical starting skills for the position. Missed just two games in his career and is extremely tough. Carries his weight well and is one of the most technically sound prospects in the draft. Has a smooth, efficient pass-set that allows him to get a solid, balanced base. Powerful and aggressive vs. the run with very good feet for his size. Anchored a very polished offensive line - an NFL-ready tackle who possesses all the traits.

But will tend to pop upright on contact and get slightly off balance (usually when slanting in the run game). Not a real powerful or violent puncher(at times his punches will slow his feet and he can get caught off guard). Not a quick-twitched mover off the snap and could have some issues against the league's best speed rushers.

ESPN (Scouts, Inc.) - In pass pro, he quickly gets into sets and plays with a wide base. But doesn't always sink well and footwork is inconsistent which can make him off-balance and susceptible to effective power moves Must be firmer protecting the edge and will turn shoulders & provide rushers with a two way go). Must be more patient in sets. But he is a gifted athlete who is light on his feet and can slide and mirror with defenders once he’s gotten into position. Also uses a quick and compact punch and resets quickly. Bottom line is that he needs a lot of technical work in pass prt but has good upside due to athleticism."

In the run game, he has excellent initial quickness and takes proper angles to get into solid initial position and open up. Stays low with a wide base to get initial surge to open up running lanes. Inline power base is good but he could get stronger in the core. Easy mover in space. Quickly transitions to the second level and can adjust on the move when pulling around edge.

Natural football intelligence. Assignment-sound in the run game. Indentifies and locates targets at the 2nd level. Can adjust on the fly against defensive line movement. Good awareness in pass pro. Locates pressures from the 2nd and 3rd level. Patient enough to stay home working against defensive line stunts, games, twists etc. "

We’d  like to see him play with an edge more consistently. Good fighter when locked in a phone booth / works to sustain blocks. Will clean up piles on occasion. Not yet a consistent finisher.

Reilly Reiff 6056 313 Iowa (Arm: 33¼)
Combine: 5.23 Forty| 23 Reps| 26.5 VJ| 98.0" BJ| 7.87 3C| 4.75 20Sh|  

Pro Day - A projected top-10 pick. Reiff excelled in his position workouts and recorded a 29 1/2-inch vertical jump and 26 strength reps. He is almost a carbon copy of former Hawkeye and current Packers OT Bryan Bulaga, but Reiff is a little bigger and has better feet.

BRS (Gollin) – Compared to Kalil – key drop-off may whether he can handle speed-rushers off the edge. Arm length is only an inch less than most top picks.

Pro Football  Draft Guide – More upside than any OL in this year’s draft. Technically raw,but big upside; a pure athlete with length and power to become a franchise LT.

From nfl.com - Started every game for Iowa following a redshirt year where he was actually on the defensive side of the ball. (Very durable considering how heavily Iowa relied on its run game). Smart -  should be able to adapt to the NFL speed and playbooks with ease. It’s unlikely that Reiff will last past the first round of the draft.

Big  body who uses his frame well in pass pro. Powerful blocker adept at rolling his hips into his man to tap into his power and explosion. Fluid enough to get out into space and seal the edge or work up to linebacker level. In pass pro, he keeps his weight even to have a good anchor and stall bull rushers. He has incredible body control and is a true technician working within the box. Uses his hands well but is more of a catcher.

At Iowa, he was a very polished player who didn't show many weaknesses. Not the strongest prospect at the position, ( more of a catch blocker in pass pro and won't have the ability to decleat any ends in the NFL). If any type of foe will give him issues at the next level, it could be heavy 3-4 defensive ends who could out-leverage him and blow him back.

ESPN (Scouts, Inc.) - Above average balance for size /can mirror defenders. Resets feet and absorbs bigger bull rushers. Long and quick enough to protect the edge when footwork is sound (appeared to make strides in this area last year). But there are concerns about his ability to protect blind side at the next level. Kick step is still inconsistent. Can get beaten around the corner or overset to the outside and get beaten inside. Sets a bit too high and doesn't deliver a violent initial punch. Vulnerable to speed-to-power pass rushers who can get under his outside shoulder and bend back inside.

Can get under defenders as a run blocker and drive them off the ball when he keeps pads down (he could be more consistent there).. Agile enough to scoop backside 3-technique and seal front side 5-technique as a zone blocker. Takes adequate angles to second level and can cut off backside linebacker.

Keeps head up and on a swivel. Picks up stunts in pass pro but struggles to adjust when defensive front stunts on zone running plays.

Developed more of a mean streak as the season progressed (and there’s more room to improve). Can drive defenders eight yards downfield and then put them on their back. Can cover downfield and get under defender's skin.


Zebrie Sanders 6055 320 Florida St.  (Arm: 35)
Combine: 5.41 Forty| 28 Reps| 27.0 VJ| 100.0" BJ| 8.15 3C| 4.99 20Sh|

Pro Day -Sanders has 34 5/8-inch arms, which is a good indicator of future success as a pro. He must improve his strength, but he looked very good in position drills and projects as a second-round pick.

BRS (Gollin) – Apparently projects as a starting RT, but appears to have potential as a LT if he can be successfully coached-up. Interesting option (perhaps as a trade-down target or later on the first day).

Pro Football  Draft Guide – Has all the tools to be a solid NFL starter potentially at LT. Just needs the right coaching staff. Tackle prospect with the size, length and athleticism, but slow to react and shaky balance.

From nfl.com - Started all but two games at LT or RT during his career.Quick for his size, (though he could stand to put on more weight). He excels in the pass game, where he uses his size to keep defenders at bay and does not allow defenders to get by him. Smart player who rarely gets out of position and projects to be a reliable option for teams at the next level with the potential to creep into the first round of the draft.

An athletic big man. Holds his own in the run game, but is a great pass blocker who knows how to use his hands and size to stay productive. He has good feet and is very smooth in his movements and pass-sets. Good agility /can get his body on defenders up field in the run and screen game.

While smooth, he does not necessarily display the strength and explosiveness you want in a first-round-type lineman. (Gets the job done but will not “wow” anyone with his ability to knock a defender off the line).

ESPN (Scouts, Inc.) - Gets set quickly and does a nice job with the angle of his first step. Can shuffle laterally but has limited mirror-and-slide range. Not a natural bender. Absorbs some defenders and occasionally will give some ground to more powerful bull rushers, but he consistently gets set and in good initial position. A big OT with long arms, so he's difficult to get around. Adept at using his long arms to ride defenders wide. Lacks an overpowering punch and tends to set his hands wide, which leads to some problems with clutching, grabbing and falling off of blocks.

Leaves his feet a bit too often (which usually occurs when he loses leverage due to wide hand placement). But overall he's a very good run blocker.Great job with his first step / consistently gets into position. Shows good range for a RT. Gets out quickly as a zone run blocker and also covers a lot of ground as a second-level blocker. Big enough to engulf smaller defenders. Adept at steering defenders once he’slocked on. Fights to finish."

Intelligent and well prepared. Knows his assignments. Good at chipping and getting out to the second level to find a LB to seal off in the run game. Keeps his head on a swivel and can switch off of guys. Does a very nice job adjusting to the blitz.

Hard worker. Mentally tough. Fights through the whistle and looks to finish his blocks. Not a classic mauler but he flashes a mean streak and does not play soft.

James Brown 6034 306 Troy (Arm: 34½)

Combine: 5.30 Forty| 24 Reps| 25.5 VJ| 102.0" BJ| 7.70 3C| 4.78 20 Sh|

BRS (Gollin) -  Caught my eye during Senior Bowl week. Ranked #11 OT by US Today (NFLDraftScouts). Listed as a guard by Scouts, Inc. and other draft mags.  No Scouts Inc. write-up, but I rate him my #1  sleeper and project him as a possible 3rd or 4th round Cardinal pick.

PFW Scout's Candid Comment - "I like Brown on the inside, but he's a really good athlete. He can stay on the outside. He's just really raw, technique-wise. I wish he were more nasty finishing, but he holds his own."

Pro Football  Draft Guide Perhaps the highest developmental lineman available. The tools are there for Brown to be a starter at RT or OG in a zone system. College LT who doesn’t have the length to stay there…outstanding feet…raw but potential All Pro LG.

From nfl.com - Rarely allowed a sack during his tenure as blindside blocker, but he projects to guard in the NFL (he doesn't quite have the height to stay outside at the next level). He is a better run blocker than he is a pass protector. If he can be taught the guard position and excel there, his versatility gives him added value. Figures to be taken toward the end of the second round by a team looking for line depth.

Has the initial quickness to move inside to guard and jolt defenders back off the snap. A  solid run blocker who can clear gaps and keep his man near him once engaged. Defenders rarely fall off his blocks, and he‘s effective moving up field and can sink his hips to fit on a block. A competitive blocker who always works to the whistle.

Brown didn't play inside at guard in college, so there will be a learning curve. Only an average pass blocker. Footwork is effective but he can often get beat by falling forward and being too aggressive. If he were to remain at tackle, he  could face going up against bigger, more athletic ends.

Mayock Pre-Senior Bowl Position Rank: 4.
Mike Adams 6072 323 Ohio State (Arm: 34)
Combine: 5.40 Forty |19 Reps |28.5 VJ | 100.0" BJ | 7.94 3C | 4.95 20Sh | No 60Sh |

Pro Day — Adams just got measured and worked out in position drills, and he looked good but not exceptional. He’s a good athlete with long arms. One of the things teams are concerned about is his inconsistency, which isn’t something that can be addressed in a pro day work out. If you look his tape from the Nebraska game last season, he looked like a first-round pick. He didn’t look quite as good, however, in the Purdue tape.

BRS (Gollin) -  Looks the part but may lack game-production. Caught my eye during Senior Bowl week. Seems like the high talent-plateau atop the first round drops off a bit here. Brian Billick impressed by his sheer size and strength. Needs more work in weight room.

Mayock and staff were impressed during Senior Bowl week.

PFW Scout's Candid Comment - "Put on a clinic against Whitney Mercilius."

Pro Football  Draft Guide – Has the physical traits to become a starter but his game doesn’t translate well. He’s likely a future swing tackle. Elite LT measurables but knocked off balance a little too easily. Still has upside left.

From nfl.com - Has flashed talent at left tackle, not allowing many sacks when actually on the field. Suspensions for violating team rules and his part in Ohio State's "Tattoo Five" scandal, as well as various injuries, have kept him on the sideline too often during his career. A rather un-exciting prospect who can do the job and has the frame for the next level, but figures to be initially more of a backup option and would struggle if thrown into a starting role. Off his big-time school background and frame, he has late round potential.

Has a good frame and just-good enough footwork to not get beat at the collegiate level. Employs a decent pass-set to get back and anchor himself against the bull rush and the footwork to shuffle and keep his feet chopping when driving a man downfield in the run game.

But not a very exciting player who’s not very explosive.  More of a catch and react blocker than one who delivers blows, and needs to play with more fire to succeed at the next level. Suspensions and injuries will also eat away at his draft stock.

ESPN (Scouts, Inc.) - Struggles to sink hips in pass pro and can give too much ground but absorbs and resets feet more times than not. Can slide feet and stay in front of defenders when they try to shoot inside. Quick and long enough to ride edge rushers past the pocket. Strong punch /can knock edge rushers off course. But a bit of a swinging door who may turn shoulders when taking away the edge, hurting his ability to counter when defensive end redirects inside after starting outside. "

Quick enough to get into position and can wall off defenders in the run game. Can move defenders off the ball but leg drive is inconsistent / doesn't sink hips enough to consistently generate push. Doesn't roll hips and will slip off some blocks. Adequate body control / can get into position downfield but doesn't always take sound angle when asked to cut off backside linebacker.

Sometimes seems lost as a run blocker and has problems locating assignment when defensive front shifts at the snap of the ball. Inconsistent at picking up line stunts. Will miss defensive tackle looping around when he overcommits to DE.

Won't back down from a challenge, bu, not a traditional mauler and we’d like to see him play with more of an edge.

Nate Potter 6057 303 Boise State (Arm: 34½)

Combine: 5.36 Forty | 22 Reps | 28.5 VJ | 100.0"" BJ | 7.49 3C | 4.67 20Sh |

BRS (Gollin) - Available Players Above Him on Board: 3 (J Brown OL, Reynolds and Dennard). Third offensive lineman drafted by Cards. He brings LT finesse to the table (whereas Massie and Kelemete are considered more explosive straight-ahead maulers.

 

Pro Day did not do workouts because he hurt his back lifting weights.

 

Pro Football  Draft Guide – Needs to add strength but has upside as a potential LT in a finesse zone blocking scheme

 

From nfl.com - Reliable and athletic - started every game the past two years at left tackle protecting Kellen Moore. Takes good angles to the second level and is a very heady player who knows how to get to his blocks and has the strength to stick on them. A bit underweight at under 300 pounds and has fifth-round talent – initially as a backup and eventually a starter.

 

Quick off the ball to get into his blocks and sustain in the run game. Has the strength and balance to stick with it and get movement. A very technical blocker who employs a good pass set and quick feet to get in position. Adept at getting up field to the second level and sticking on linebackers, (which gives him versatile value as a guard).

 

But he’s non-explosive - gets movement from his leg drive and not from initial contact. Hasn’t pulled much at Boise State, and there are some questions as to how his game will translate right away at the next level.

 

ESPN (Scouts, Inc.) - Long framed and is light on his feet. But not an elite athlete or natural knee-bender. Balance and lateral quickness is just average and speed rushers can give him problems off the edge. While he doesn't sink well he appears to have the frame and enough strength to anchor against power moves. Strong hands / can control defenders once he gets into proper position and latch on.

Not a dominating road grader but has the frame and strength to cover up defenders to open up running lanes. Has the short-area quickness to establish position but will take poor initial angles on occasion. Shows good strength at the POA but needs to play with better pad level. Will lunge and lean on defenders and fall off of blocks. Surprisingly transitions well to the second level and he takes solid angles in this area. However, he is a limited athlete who does not have great ability to adjust on the move when playing in space.

Good poise as a run blocker. Effective zone blocker who can adjust when defensive front shifts at the snap of the ball. Keeps head on a swivel in pass pro and can pick up blitz. But he can be a quarter-count late recognizing and reacting to defensive line twists.

More of a finesse blocker than a mauler. Mean streak but not consistently). Not a finisher at this point.

Brandon Mosley 6055 314 Auburn  (Arm: 34)

Combine: 5.21 Forty | 30 Reps | 27.0 VJ | 103.0" BJ | 74.43 3C |4.78 20Sh |

Pro Day - He only did position drills, administered by scouts, as there were no offensive line coaches involved. Mosley has lots of upside and his athleticism showed during drills, but he needs to get stronger. Could go in the middle rounds.

PFW Scout's Candid Comment - "Could be a riser because there is no one else. He's tight-ankled and plays tall, but the mushroom club is going to fall in love with his toughness."

Pro Football  Draft Guide – One of the most intriguing developmental prospects in the draft. Could deliver a huge reward to a patient team in 2 or 3 years.Converted TE still learning the position. College RT but has the tools to play LT if coached up.

From nfl.com - Has not been playing tackle long. Continues to develop both physically and with his skill-set. Expect him to be selected in the seventh round by a team with the depth and patience to develop his big body on the outside.

Can mirror the defender and keep his man in front of him. Not a violent blocker but can move people enough to create a hole. Has played in a spread offense where he was responsible for walling defenders off and getting to the second level (something he excels at).

A clear developmental prospect for two reasons: (1) He hasn't played the position long, (2) he played in a spread. He will have a serious developmental phase and a tough time playing immediately.

ESPN (Scouts, Inc.) - Tall, long-armed OT. Not a natural knee bender but does show good natural agility for his size. Wide wingspan / difficult to get around. Adequate quickness in his pass pro set. Must improve his footwork and hand placement consistency. Developmental project but has upside due to his size potential, agility and balance. "

Fires out of stance as a run blocker and shows the quick feet to consistently get into position. No mauler but he has the frame to engulf smaller defensive linemen with good upper body strength to lock out and steer. Plays with balance and almost always under control. Rarely leaves his feet. Can get in position and hit a moving target on the second level.

Adequate awareness as a blocker in space and should continue to improve with more game experience.

Aggressive, tough and physical player. Fights to finish. Still learning his craft but does not play tentatively. Plays the game with tenacity.

Matt Reynolds 6044 302 BYU (Arm: 33¼)
Combine: 5.37 Forty | 25 Reps | Didn't Jump |

Pro Day - Reynolds was at the NFL Scouting Combine. He ran the 40-yard dash in 5.12 and 5.20 seconds, recorded a 29-inch vertical, an 8-foot-11 broad jump, a 4.68-second short shuttle, a 7.55-second three-cone. His arms measured 33 1/8-inches long, and he didn’t bench press. He’s older, because he missed school to go on a religious mission. He had a good workout, though he didn’t knock anyone’s socks off.

Pro Football  Draft Guide   Potential starter in a power scheme, but it seems likely it will be at RT or inside

From nfl.com - A bit undersized for the position and could potentially be moved inside where his height wouldn't inhibit him. Has fifth- or sixth-round talent but could have trouble if kept outside to protect the quarterback at the next level.

Powerful run-blocker who can snap off the LOS into his man quickly and leg drive sufficiently to keep his man occupied. Decent athletic ability can get upfield nicely and position on lLB’s, (which makes a switch inside even more viable).

 Quick off the ball but a bit of a slow mover once working up field. Can fall off blocks at times and must show that he can sustain at the next level. Older than the average rookie due to his Morman mission time away from football.

Tony Bergstrom 6053 313 Utah (Arm: 32)
Combine: 5.27 Forty | 32 Reps | 29.5 VJ | 101.0" BJ | 4.87 20Sh |

PFW Scout's Candid Comment - "The only reason I pushed him up into the third-round is because of where Zane Beadles went (midway through the second round). I would have liked to leave him in the fourth. That's how he plays, but someone will jump him early. The linemen always pop off fast."

Pro Football  Draft Guide   Not much upside here, but he could be a nice fit at RT or inside for a run-heavy power-blocking scheme

From nfl.com - Like Reynolds, an older prospect (went on a religious mission for two years). Reliable/ hasn't allowed many sacks. Avery good mover in space who works well to the second level -  could be an option for teams to work at guard. A solid, reliable, risk-free prospect who could eventually develop into a starter and should settle into a backup role nicely early on;  a late-round value.

Moves well in space. Not very aggressive blocker, but when pulling he is very good at chopping his feet, gatherimg his weight and settling into a block to put himself into a position to get movement and keep sustained. A technically sound player who uses his hands well. Looks natural in his pass set and gets his hands readied early to fight off rushers. Not very strong, but relies on feet and technique to work on the line and make reliable blocks.

Lacks explosion and seems almost weak. Doesn’t get much of a jolt when working off the ball and struggles to get a lot of movement as a run blocker. Unaggressive blocker and is more of a catcher who uses his feet and hands to react and mirror. He is what he is: Reliable, big, and a student of the game, but he isn't going to blow anyone away at the next level.

Andrew Datko 6060 315 (Arm: 33¾)

Combine: 5.32 Forty | Didn't Lift | 29.5 V | 100.0" BJ | 7.71 3 | 4.54 20Sh |

Pro Day - Datko did 20 strength reps. He performed position drills, answering questions about whether he can pass a physical after he had shoulder surgery last year.

BRS (Gollin) – Smart, lunch-pail type who may have technique flaws but enough athleticism and savvy to make it as a swing backup player or even a future starter down the road. (Note he’s not on the USA Today NFLDraftScouts.com list of 26 tackles, guards or centers and may, therefore, turn out to be a late round or UDFA sleeper).

Pro Football  Draft Guide – If he comes out, he should win over a position coach and become a starter on the right side.

From nfl.com - A much better run blocker than pass blocker and will need to work on his pass-set and overall strength to handle NFL-caliber defensive ends. Has the drive and competitive spirit necessary to succeed at the next level; and certainly has the size. A big man who can get overpowered at times, Strength training should be a postseason necessity for him.

Fast off the LOS and immediately fits on his blocks whether it be linemen or at the second level.  Not an explosive mover, but can stay with his blocks once on them. May struggle in pass pro but usually blocks long enough to get the job done. He Makes up for average athletic ability by being technically sound and understanding how to use his hands and feet to keep defenders occupied. As a run blocker, he works hard to move defenders and, despite his weaknesses, is a "get the job done" player at the end of plays and games.

He can be stiff at times and struggles noticeably with certain movements. While he is an effective blocker, it’s usually not pretty and when he has to move a lot - and when inconsistencies in his play can show up. Does fit on blocks OK, often struggles to get there. A catcher as a blocker, but it has served him well up to this point.

ESPN (Scouts, Inc.) - Light on his feet. Gets set quickly. Can get depth in his set and cut off speed rushers without overextending. Quick feet to shuffle laterally. Can change directions smoothly. He generally does a nice job with his hand placement. But  he plays like he has shorter arms. Will occasionally lunge for initial contact, dip his head and let his feet go dead. Plays with a bit of a narrow base and powerful bull rushers can drive him back into the QB.

Not a mauler. Lacks lower body strength to drive blocks. Will leave his feet on occasion and fail to finish a bit too often. But he is a very effective zone-run blocker. Quick first step / outstanding job with his blocking angles. Consistently gets into position and plays with good balance in the run game. A technician in the run game. Some upper body power. Very good awareness in space and consistently hits the moving target. "

Great awareness in space as a run blocker. Understands angles and is technically sound. Experienced and consistent. Well prepared / work in film room translates to the field. Knows his opponents tendencies. Shows good instincts versus the blitz in pass pro.

Good motor. Hard worker for four quarters and mentally tough. Has a mean streak but we’d like to see him finish more consistently. Lacks killer instinct at times and it occasionally costs him.

Matt McCants 6057 308 UAB (Arm: 35½)
Combine: 5.52 Forty | 17 Reps | 25.5 VJ | 97.0" BJ | No 3C | No 20Sh |

BRS (Gollin) -
Evidently not a weight room warrior.

Pro Football  Draft Guide – An intriguing finesse blocker with the potential to play LT down the line if he gets after it in the weight room

From nfl.com - A late-round value pick as a developmental project at tackle. Has the natural size and frame for the next level, but will need to put on some weight to hold his own. An inconsistent on/off type player, but overall has late-round value based on his potential and could continue to rise as the postseason progresses.

A very good positional blocker with fluid hips. Has the body control to get up in a defensive lineman's face, and if he falls off, can recover and continue to shuffle and mirror to keep position. (This serves him better in pass protection, where he hardly ever allowed a sack). But he can struggle at times in the run game due to lack of strength and explosion. He’s athletic when moving in space and plays much better when pulling or sealing than in a phone booth, which could make him a guard prospect

Not very big or strong (he played the majority of his career under 290 pounds). Struggles coming out of a three-point stance and has some very telling and troubling tendencies which could scare NFL teams. Not very technically sound with his hands. (All these things come together to scare off teams considering whether they want to develop a big frame into a NFL-ready competitor.

Bobby Massie 6061 316 Ole Miss (Arm: 35)

Combine: 5.23 Forty | 22 Reps | 27.5 VJ | 103.0" BJ | 7.70 3C | 4.95 20Sh |

Pro Day - Stood on everything from last month’s combine.

Pro Football  Draft Guide – Road-grading tackle with the length and athleticism to play LT but must be coached up. A developmental prospect with some nice upside. Has LT potential but could start on the inside as Plan B.

From nfl.com - Massive OT, four years removed from a year at the renowned Hargrave Military Academy. Not a standout player in college and will have to find the right opportunity to get drafted late to a team with a need.

Size is Massie's best friend, since he can excel as a blocker in the run game simply from being able to maul his man and control from his girth. Rarely got blown back by defensive linemen in college and has a strong anchor that he sits nicely in after his pass set. More of a react-and-catch blocker who gets away with this technique solely due to his leg strength. Decent range in his pass set /controls his man once engaged.

But not a very dynamic athlete and a slow-footed mover. Not a natural bender and rigid in many of his movements. Labors to work to the second level and and struggles when sifting through traffic to engage his man. Relies on catching his man in pass pro and will get in trouble with that technique at the next level.

ESPN (Scouts, Inc.) - Above average upside as a pass blocker. Sets too high and gets knocked off balance by power rush but his ability to recover from initial power surge and reset is excellent. Protects the edge well though initial quickness is just average. Effective kick step / long arms. Upper body strength seems above average - can knock edge rushers off balance with punch (though he needs to be more consistent in delivering it). While can redirect once locked on, he can also overset to the outside and get beaten to the inside at the snap. Top-heavy and vulnerable to pull moves.

Quick enough to get into position and drive legs in the run game. Footwork could be crisper but has lateral mobility and balance to develop into an effective zone blocker. Washes defenders down the line when extends arms but fails to lock out at times. Doesn't generate enough surge as a drive blocker. Doesn't deliver a violent initial punch or roll hips on contact. Plays high. Leans / spends a little too much time on the ground. Engulfs linebackers when he can reach them but angles are inconsistent and h has some problems adjusting to moving targets in space.

Keeps head up and locates assignments when asked to combo block up to the second level. Seems to make sound pre-snap reads and can be seen pointing out assignment on film. Picks up blitzes and line stunts when he keeps head on a swivel but can overcommit at the snap and get caught out of position.

Short memory (negative plays don't snowball). Won't back down in phone booth - average effort, but more of a positional blocker than a mauler. Lacks a mean streak / not a finisher.

Brandon Brooks      6-5    343   Miami (O)
Pro Day - Senior guard Brandon Brooks was the main focus of Pro Day, as he is projected as a middle-round draft pick in the upcoming NFL Draft. Brooks completed 36 reps on the bench press and had a vertical leap of 32 inches. He also clocked a sub-five second 40-yard dash.

BRS (Gollin) - My radar screen started blinking in early April about this guy. Missing a 2nd round pick, the Cardinals - badly in need of OT help - may have to look to the mid-late rounds to uncover one or two "diamonds in the rough." Brooks fits the profile.

Miami (O)  Scouting Reports -
An all-star candidate in his final season ... although he sat out spring drills because of an injury, Miami's coaches have penciled him in as a starter at right guard ... Brooks has to be a a factor for the RedHawks to be dominant up front ... has the potential to be a game changer because of his athletic ability ... coaches are counting upon him to be a team leader.

 

East-West Shrine (Miami PR Dept) - Brooks was one of the players who most helped himself during the week. Displaying a huge 6 ft 5, 343 pounds, Brooks absolutely dominated all week long and finished strongly in the game. He displayed power in his run blocking, good technique in his pass blocking and has a chance to be a day 2 pick thanks to his strong Shrine Game showing.

 

Another website, BleacherReport.com, was equally complimentary to Brooks: The West's power running game led the way to their game-winning drive late in the fourth quarter, and this was mostly due to the terrific play of the trio playing on the interior line at the time. Miami University guard Brandon Brooks, Connecticut center Moe Petrus, and Saskatchewan right guard Ben Heenan all did a great job throughout the game of lead blocking in the middle to open up holes for the running game. The player who really helped his stock this week was Brooks. Weighing in at 353 pounds, Brooks is an absolutely massive player, and he uses his strength and power to his advantage. Brooks really turned heads with his performance in this game, and went from a late-rounds draft selection to a player who will be selected in the middle rounds.

 

National Football Post - "The guard prospect everyone needs know about. He wasn't a Combine invitee but could be starting in the NFL from Day 1." Has experience playing left tackle and both guard spots, but his body type says more guard only in the NFL. He is a long armed guy for his size. However, possesses a physical make-up and carries his weight well. Struggles in space when asked to get out and pull. Looks a little top heavy, doesn't possess "plus" range when asked to get into the second level and lacks ideal balance when trying to breakdown and take proper angles. Has a tough time changing directions once he gets his momentum going and routinely will whiff into contact. Nevertheless, is a naturally strong kid in the run game as an in-line guy. Showcases good bend when asked to coil up into his stance. Did a much better job as a senior keeping his pad level down and running his legs through contact while staying engaged. Showcases quick hands off the snap. Doesn't have a real explosive first step, but is so powerful he can create a push in-line as a run blocker.

Does a good job sitting into his stance in the pass game. His size and natural power allows him to be a "plus" anchor player vs. the bull rush. Plus, his length again allows him to gain leverage into contact and he's really improved his punch as the year went on. Is an above-average athlete for his size and exhibits solid change of direction skills. But, isn't real technically sound with his footwork in pass protection at times. Doesn't stay real balanced, wants to be aggressive and get his hands on lineman, and will get caught lunging into contact. .

Impression: Is a big, strong kid who has some lateral quickness for his size but needs some technique work. Nevertheless, has some upside and can win consistently in the run game and pass game and looks like an NFL starter in an angle scheme to me.

  Blake DeChristopher      6050   305    Virginia Tech 
Pro Day - Forty: 5.52 |  Ten:  1.94 |  Twenty:  3.28  |  BP: 25  |  VJ: 26  | BJ: 8.05  | Sh Sh: NA  | 3C: NA |

BRS (Gollin) -
Reddog (posting on ASFN) had a legitimate question: "If he's as good as Mitch says he is, why wasn't he drafted?" Maybe it was the subpar forty time, but his write-ups suggest he should be included with Massie, Kelemete and Potter as keys torebuilding our O-line.

Walter Mitchell (posting on ASFN) - 2011: graded over 90%, averaged 10+ knockdown blocks a game, best in ACC. Won the ACC Jacobs Blocking Award give annually to the ACC's best offensive lineman. narrowly winning it over Zebrie Sanders. Watched him in a few games---have seen quite a lot of him anyway and have always liked him---very stout and strong on the edge---probably one of the top 5 RTs in college football the last two years. Plays with the same type of temperament that David DeCastro does. And plays on strength and technique. Might be best suited to play guard in the NFL---but this kid, imo, has an excellent chance to succeed.


NFL Draft Scouts -
Draft Scout Snapshot: 2010: Started every game … Led the team with eight knockdowns against NC State … Graded 88 percent at Miami with six knockdown blocks … Collected seven knockdown blocks in the ACC title game against FSU and graded out at 87 percent … Won the Don Williams TEAM UNITED Award during the spring for the offensive player who put the team first. 2009: Started every game but one … Sat out the Duke game with an ankle injury … Bounced back with a career-high eight knockdown blocks in the Boston College game … Shared the Coaches Award for the offensive player who had an exceptional spring with tight end Andre Smith. 2008: Started the first game at right tackle, played just four plays before suffering a thigh bruise and a bruised kidney … Was forced to sit out two games, returned to start final 10 games … Led the team with seven knockdowns in the Maryland game. 2007: Dressed for several of the Hokies’ early games as a backup at right tackle … Was held out of action and redshirted … Won the Paul Torgersen Award as the top offensive newcomer during spring practice.
 
 

 

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