The New England Patriots have drafted former Florida State OL Tre' Jackson in the fourth round (111th overall).
Played in 49 games, starting 42. Captured South Team MVP honors at 2015 Senior Bowl. Named unanimous All-American in 2014 and was tabbed first-team All-ACC for two years in a row (2013-14) while helping lead Florida State to a 27-1 record and 2013 BCS national championship. In 2013, missed one game due to ankle injury. In 2012, named second-team All-ACC while starting 14 games at right guard. Played in the final eight games as a freshman, and started in bowl game against Notre Dame. Played both offensive and defensive line at Wayne County High School (Ga.). Missed his junior season with an ACL tear.
PRO DAY RESULTS
20-yard short shuttle: 5.3 seconds
Three-cone drill: 8.4 seconds
Bench press: 20 reps of 225 pounds
NFL.COM ANALYSIS
STRENGTHS: Leverage and strength to stand and steer defenders in confined spaces. Stays flat-footed and balanced at point of impact in pass pro. Deliberate, controlled climb to second level. Power to jolt in his hands. Shows recovery ability when beaten in run game. In short pull, can find target, engage and seal. Aggressive play demeanor. Can take a stand when being bull-rushed.
WEAKNESSES: Fleshy midsection with excess weight potentially affecting foot quickness. Loses feet sliding to pick up rushers. Will duck head into block on contact. Limited effectiveness in space. Inconsistent performer this season. Too reliant upon size over skill and failed to show improvement this season. Struggles to get feet into winning position when blocking laterally.
DRAFT PROJECTION: Round 2 or 3
SOURCES TELL US: "He's got everything you want in a guard, he just needs to work on technique. I did my homework on the person and I think he'll be coachable. He would start right away for us." - NFL offensive coordinator
NFL COMPARISON:Justin Blalock
BOTTOM LINE: Three-year starter on a line full of wide-bodies, Jackson entered the 2014 season as one of the top-rated guard prospects, but failed to distinguish himself. Has the talent to be a dependable, quality NFL starter, but he needs to work on weight and conditioning in order to improve his feet and reach his potential.
