2011 NFL Draft Preview O-Linemen
Offensive Tackles
- Anthony Castonzo BC- O-Line U has a new NFL stud coming into the league once again. Castonzo in mind is one of the best BC has turned out. He started as freshmen protecting for Matty Ice himself.He has experience on both the right and left side, and could play either at a high level in the NFL. Costanzo's versatility, intelligence, and experience will be attractive to NFL teams.
- Tyron Smith USC-Although he played mostly on the right side at USC, Tyron Smith has the athleticism to play left tackle in the NFL. In fact, his biggest strength lies in his pass protection. He is, however, a little undersized at only 285-290pds and is going to have to continue bulking up.
- Gabe Carimi Wisconsin- Carimi has a ton of experience protecting his quarterback's blind side. However, he lacks overall athletic ability and would struggle against speed rushers in the NFL. He might have to start his career at RT to get use to the speed of the NFL game.
- Nate Solder Colorado- Solder, who spent a couple seasons at tight end for the Colorado Buffalos before moving to offensive tackle, is a little bit of a raw product, but his upside is undeniable. At 6-8 he has incredible size and moves very well. He's light on his feet, and his skills translate well to left tackle in the NFL, although he has the potential to play either side. He would also give some teams an option in goal-line situations if they want to throw him ball.
- Marcus Cannon TCU- He is way to big to play OT but he is beast when needed at 350pds. He will probably have to switch to G due his pure size. He has been compared to Leonard Davis who had the same problem coming out of college but Davis has had a pretty good career so that isn't a knock on Cannon.
Centers/ Guards
- Mike Pouncey Florida-The twin brother of 2010 first-round draft pick Maurkice Pouncey, has all the tools to be a solid starting center or guard in the NFL. He's an athletic interior lineman who has an uncanny ability to get to the outside on lead blocks and to the second level to seal off linebackers. Pouncey's versatility, quickness, and agility should make him attractive to teams looking for interior line help
- Danny Watkins Baylor- Excellent college left tackle despite his lack of experience. Sits into a good posture after his kick-slide. Comes out to meet the defensive end, mirrors opponents' lateral movement.While perhaps not an elite athlete, Watkins' prototype size, strength and nasty, physical play inside should make him an immediate contributor at the pro level despite having just four years of football experience.Compares very well to Logan Mankins.
- Benjamin Ijalana Villanova- Exceptional pass blocker at the FCS level, dominates defensive ends on most plays with great length with athleticism. His size and experience could keep him on the outside. Without being tested against FBS speed, many scouts see his ultimate pro position inside at guard, where his toughness, athleticism and strong hands (his background as a high school wrestler is apparent) should aid him in making a smooth transition.
- Stefen Wisniewski Penn St- Best pure Center in the draft.Has been starting for Penn State since his freshman year, so he has a ton of experience. He's effective as both a run blocker and pass protector.
- Clint Boling Georgia-Boling isn't an elite athlete, but he has a great deal of experience as a four-year starter for the Bulldogs' pro-style offense at both guard and tackle positions.
Who is the ideal Patriot given draft projections?
- Mike Pouncey Florida- He could easily feel the shoes left behind from Stephen Neals retirement or let the transition for Dan Koppen to move to guard and start the new generation at center with Pouncey either way would work since Pouncey is very versatile.Hopefully if we do draft him we don't have to witness him kissing his bro on the lips again.
- Nate Solder Colorado- If Matt Light is not brought back after the CBA is worked Solder would make a great LT or RT for the Patriots depending on what they want to do with Vollmer.
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