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Photo Blog: Breaking down the OL
As we cruise toward the 2012 NFL Draft, get a quick glimpse at prospect breakdowns for the offensive line position from Andy Hart of Patriots Football Weekly.
Miller may be a right tackle or tall (6-7) guard prospect. He pulls well and finds someone to hit in space. He has solid feet and uses his hands well.
Saulsberry played all over in college, so versatility is a strength. He's also fundamentally sound, if not overly gifted physically. He pulls pretty well and has OK feet as an interior late-round option.
His father is a BYU coach and Reynolds is a two-time team captain. He uses his hands well and could be a developmental tackle. His lunch pal is ready for him to go to work in the trenches.
Some have compared Potter to another Nate, Patriots first-round tackle Nate Solder. He's long and lean, and not nearly as talented as Solder. He needs to get stronger, as he gets pushed around at times.
Jones is a four-year starter and seemingly 'safe' draft option. There is nothing spectacular here, but solid all around. He passes blocks off well and is seen as a leader, which is key in the middle.
I'm not nearly as high on Martin as some. I think he's a right tackle in the NFL with average athletic ability and strength.
The consensus best center in the draft, Konz is a good but not great prospect. But he's not in the Nick Mangold category. More of a technique blocker than a power guy and only an average overall athlete.
Just a big powerful guy. Not an elite athlete, but a solid interior possibility. He has good strength and while he was a guard in college, he did take some snaps at the Senior Bowl.
Glenn could end up at either tackle or guard, having played both. He moves extremely well for a guy his size and can move people. Footwork may be a little slow for tackle, at guard he may be a Pro Bowler.
DeCastro is very good interior prospect. He has a good base and solid footwork. He pulls well and finishes blocks. May not be an elite athlete, but is an elite guard prospect.
Reiff earns the No. 2 slot because of the value of tackle. He doesn't have any obvious weaknesses. Not elite at any one thing, but solid all around. In that way, he kind of reminds me of Matt Light.
Kalil is easily the best tackle and offensive lineman in the draft. He's long, athletic, strong and has good feet. He makes left tackle look easy.
