4/19/22
Perhaps the toughest position to evaluate because of the drastic transition from the college level to the pros. For an Offensive Lineman, the NFL is usually so much more complex than what they’ve experienced in their college careers, especially for those who have been playing in spread offenses. This is why scouts look for certain traits in Offensive Linemen that have been proven to be able to translate to the next level. There are some good players at the top of this year’s class.
1. Evan Neal (Alabama)
Gargantuan human being at 6’7, 350 lbs. Played both Guard and Tackle at Alabama, but I believe he will ultimately end up playing Tackle in the league. Played against elite competition and was a three year starter. Very technically sound and shows that he has a good understanding of how pass rushers are trying to attack him. Has a strong punch on his pass sets which, if you watch his film, knocks defenders back. Has excellent footwork and quickness in order to be able to keep much faster rushers in front of him. Smart player who understands his responsibilities when the defense blitzes or stunts. Neal is also impressive in the run game, coming off of double teams and working his way up to the second level. He will definitely be a day 1 starter, the only question I have is whether he will play Right Tackle or Left Tackle.
2. Kenyon Green (Texas A&M)
Very good prospect at the Guard position. An absolute mauler in the run game who changes the line of scrimmage and moves defenders out of the way with ease. Green is a very good puller and often finishes by pancaking the EMOL defender. In pass protection, I love his aggressiveness when he is uncovered, helping the Center or Tackle and putting defenders on their asses. Played in a pro style offense, and is very familiar with gap schemes, which are a staple for most teams in the NFL. He should be able to come in right away and start at either Guard spot. Will need to continue to work to become more refined in his pass protection.
3. Tyler Linderbaum (Iowa)
Iowa is one of the schools known for consistently producing solid Offensive Linemen, and this year is no different. Interestingly, Linderbaum was recruited to play DT at Iowa, before making the switch to OL in his sophomore year. Immediately became the starter at Center and developed into the best at his position. Won the Rimington Trophy in 2021, given to the nation’s top Center. Plays with a nastiness that is essential to become an elite Offensive Lineman, especially for a Center, who is usually the anchor/leader of the line. Shows pretty good athleticism being able to get out and run on outsize zone plays and screen passes. Very solid in pass protection, giving up only one sack in his final two seasons combined. This is another prospect I believe can start right away in the league.
4. Charles Cross (Mississippi State)
Ideal Left Tackle size for a college player, coming in at 6’5, 310 lbs. Was named Freshman All-SEC and still managed to show marked improvement throughout his career. Shows good awareness in pass protection and I am impressed by the way he is able to recover to wall off defenders if he is initially beat off the ball. Does not get phased when pass rushers try multiple moves on him on the same play. Fairly good footwork and seems to be pretty smooth. Does need to add a little bit of weight and get stronger, which will improve his ability to dominate in the run game in my opinion. Will likely need to sit for a year or so before being ready to take on a starting role.
5. Daniel Faalele (Minnesota)
Originally from Melbourne, Australia, Faalele is the biggest prospect I can remember – 6’9, 387 lbs!!! Was a very raw prospect coming out of high school but I believe he made a smart choice to sign with a run heavy team in Minnesota, which really allowed him to develop his game, and now is one of the top Offensive Linemen in this year’s draft. Gave up only five sacks combined in three years of playing time (he opted out in 2020 because of Covid). Has brute strength and tosses defenders aside like ragdolls. I will say it again, his strength is really incredible. A bit of a developmental player and definitely needs to continue to perfect his pass protection, although his length should be able to help some.
Others to know:
Ikem Ekwonu (NC State)
Darian Kinnard (Kentucky)
Zion Johnson (Boston College)