2011 NFL Draft: Tackle

As with every draft there’s a top crew of tackles that have the length size and athleticism to play tackle in the NFL and after them there aint much. This year’s group is certainly inferior to last years and likely the year before. However there is talent and I believe 4 starters are guaranteed at the top of this class. Last year I had Russell Okung before Trent Williams because Okung played LT in college and though Trent was more athletic he only played RT. With the same reasoning I have Castonzo ahead of Smith. Even though Smith has a higher ceiling, he is unproven.

1.) Anthony Castonzo—BC—6’7”-311—1st—95—Solid technician, 40 something consecutive starts at LT. Most proven LT in the draft. I would take him as the first O-lineman because he has shown he can play the left side. He can be susceptible to power moves from the bigger DE’s. I like his feet, I like his punch, and I like his experience. He just looks like he’s got everything under control.

2.) Tyron Smith—USC—6’5”-307—Top 15—95—New breed of lineman, guy is ripped and slim and super athletic. Only played RT in college, but eerbody knows he has whats necessary to play LT. Alex Gibbs said he’s gonna be a probowl tackle, I trust his judgement. 36.5” arms. Looks inconsistent and occasionally lost on film.

3.) Derek Sherrod—Miss. St.—6’5”-321—1st—93—Played in the SEC. He played LT successfully in college and I think he can transfer that to the pros. He doesn’t have dominant athletic ability so I don’t think he will be a stellar LT. But I do think he is capable of manning the position and logging productive time. I think he gives value around pick 30. 35.5” arms. I see him on the Colts.

4.) Gabe Carimi—Wisconsin—6’7”-314—1st—92—The man is a RT. In gym shorts he looks horribly unathletic, he looks better on the field, but he still doesn’t have the mobility to play LT and that’s the money spot. I think he plays stronger than any of the other top tackles which gives him value on the right side. There’s something about him I just don’t like though, prob his unfounded cockiness.

5.) Nate Solder—Colorado—6’8”-319—1st—88—TE turned T as has been common lately. He’s big, he’s super athletic (5.05 40), you wonder about his strength (21 reps). I want to like him I really do, but he shows a terrible slide step and gets beat on speed rushes. On top of that he gets pushed back by bull rushes. I don’t know how people have him going in the top 20 he’s a high 2nd round pick and a project at that to me. He has all the tools you want to see, but you just don’t see performance. He is a really good run blocker though, and you cant teach his athleticism.

6.) Ben Ijalana—Villanova—6’4”-317—2nd day—80—Right tackle prospect that played D-1AA. His 36” arms are the reason he’s still in the running to play Tackle in the NFL. His feet are lacking, and if he doesn’t make it outside you can always slide him into guard being perfectly confident that he’ll be a solid player there. That type of versatility will be valued.

7.) Orlando Franklin—Miami—6’6”-316—3rd round/day—79—Huge dude, 35” arms ppl are gonna see if he can play RT. He’s athletic, but is susceptible to a good speed rush. Once he gets his hands on ppl they don’t get off. I think he has plenty of skill to play guard, and if given the right opportunity may make it as a RT. Gifted at getting to the 2nd Level.