2021 NFL Draft: Offensive Tackle Rankings

Chris Ransom follow @DraftUtopia Last Updated: March 18, 2021.

Penei Sewell, OT, Oregon Projected Round Top 5 Pick

2020 Season Recap The 6-6 325 lb Penei Sewell opted out of Oregon in 2020 after two strong seasons with the Oregon Ducks where he dominated as a pass blocker protecting Justin Herbert's blindside, dominated as a run blocker opening lanes for running back C.J. Verdell, and dominated as a zone blocker. His 95.5 grade for an offensive tackle in 2019 made Sewell the highest graded offensive tackle in the history of Pro Football Focus. His first two seasons at Oregon were so dominant that Penei Sewell opted out of 2020 due to Covid-19.

Penei Sewell SWOT Report

Strengths: Penei Sewell is a natural pass blocker as he did not allow a pressure, hurry, or hit in 9 starts making things easy for quarterback Justin Herbert and running back C.J. Verdell. He did not have a single sack allowed in 2019 dominating his sophomore season as Justin Herbert's blindside at Oregon. His run blocking and zone blocking is superb as well. Pass blocking strength, run blocking strength, pass blocking footwork, and run blocking footwork checks out. High football IQ. Maintains blocks for 3-5 seconds, but has the ability to maintain blocks for 7-10 seconds like Orlando Brown Jr. had coming out of Oklahoma if you can fix his mechanics.

Keeps his back straight. Shows proper knee bend. Has long arms and ideal arm length to translate to offensive tackle in the NFL. Can play offensive tackle or guard on either side of the offensive line meaning Sewell can play left tackle, left guard, right guard, and right tackle with his versatility.

Gets to the second level and can take on double teams. Keeps his back straight. Displays proper knee bend at times. Bradley Anae called Penei Sewell the toughest opponent he ever faced when I interviewed Anae at the 2020 Reese's Senior Bowl on Media Day. Outside of Marcus Mariota and LaMichael James, Penei Sewell is the only other Oregon Duck to receive first team All American honors. Penei Sewell was the first PAC 12 sophomore to win the Morris Trophy for the top offensive lineman in the PAC 12 as voted on by PAC 12 defensive linemen.

Not even Justin Herbert, the 2020 NFL Rookie of the Year achieved that feat at Oregon. Penei Sewell also won the Outland Trophy for the best interior lineman in College Football 2019. Sewell beat out Auburn defensive tackle Derrick Brown for the award in 2019.

Weaknesses: He needs to improve his mechanics and hand placement despite having uncanny ability to maintain blocks for 7-10 seconds on some plays when he showcases proper knee bend. Sewell has to be more consistent with his knee bend at the next level after struggling against Washington on a few plays in 2019. He also needs to improve his efficiency on blocks. Finally, he has a high pad level when he fatigues.

Opportunities: 2. New York Jets, 3. Miami Dolphins, 4. Atlanta Falcons, 5. Cincinnati Bengals, and 8. Carolina Panthers. Even though Trevor Lawrence to Jacksonville at 1 feels like a lock, you could honestly argue that Penei Sewell is the best player in the entire draft after Trevor Lawrence.

I doubt Trey Lance will be picked second overall now after doing worse at North Dakota State's Pro Day than Marcus Mariota, but there are five more quarterbacks who still have a chance to throw at their teams Pro Days. Mac Jones will throw at Alabama's Pro Day on March 23, Zach Wilson will throw at BYU's Pro Day on March 26, Justin Fields will throw at Ohio State's Pro Day on March 30, and Kyle Trask will throw at Florida's Pro Day on March 31st. We're not going to know if the Jets will go with the best player on the board at 2 or take a quarterback until April after the Jets go to all the quarterback Pro Days.

New York's front office even came out and said they will not make a decision on Darnold or any of the quarterbacks in this draft until they go to all of the Pro Days. That's the cautious approach that Cleveland Browns GM John Dorsey took before deciding to take Baker Mayfield first overall over the other four quarterbacks with first round grades in the 2018 NFL Draft.

Miami could go with a receiver or Sewell it will depend on how confident Miami feels about their offensive line. Left tackle Austin Jackson, right tackle Robert Hunt, and right guard Solomon Kindley all impressed as rookies. Taking Sewell allows you to move Jackson to RT, Hunt to RG, and groom Kindley to replace Ereck Flowers at left guard while you fill the only void at center or you could try Hunt at center too.

Penei Sewell is 20-years-old and Kaleb McGary the right tackle next to Jake Matthews being 25-years-old, Sewell could be an option at 4 if Atlanta cannot find a partner to trade down with if the quarterback they want to groom behind Matt Ryan is gone. Sewell played right guard in High School which is the only reason I'm bringing this up.

I don't see Penei Sewell escaping the top 5 because giving Joe Burrow Sewell would be like giving Peyton Manning Orlando Pace. Not that Burrow is as good as Manning or Sewell is as good as Pace. Giving Burrow a blindside that is the best offensive tackle in the NCAA to enter the NFL Draft since Jake Long or Joe Thomas is huge for Joe Burrow if both Burrow and Sewell can stay healthy.

I listed Carolina as the fifth most likely team that Sewell would end up on because I doubt Carolina replaces Greg Little at left tackle and Taylor Moton at right tackle when they got quarterback along with tight end as draft needs unless Penei Sewell slides to 8 by some miracle.

Threats: Penei Sewell only started 7 games in 2018 before missing the final 6 with a season ending injury. Sewell started 13 of his 14 games at Oregon before opting out of 2020 due to Covid-19 to prepare for the 2021 NFL Draft. I don't think durability is a big concern with Sewell, but it's worth noting he does have some history with injuries as he never started a full season without missing a game at Oregon.

I gave Penei Sewell a 98/99 potential grade which is one point shy of a max grade. Offensive tackles such as Orlando Pace, Jonathan Odgen, Walter Jones, Joe Thomas, and Jake Long are the only offensive tackles that you can warrant a max grade for. Sewell has less upside than those guys despite having a massive ceiling.

Potential Grade: 98/99

Before 2020

Penei Sewell played right guard in High School. He came into Oregon right away as a true freshman and beat out guys like Shane Lemieux, Jake Hanson, and Calvin Throckmorton for the left tackle job as a true freshman in 2018. Sewell can play offensive tackle or guard on either side of the offensive line.

Penei Sewell was not only the top run blocker in the PAC 12 as a true freshman after previously playing right guard in High School. Bradlee Anae called Sewell his toughest opponent as Sewell has the pass blocking by protecting quarterback Justin Herbert's blindside, the run blocking by run blocking for C.J. Verdell, and the zone blocking that you expect from the top left tackle prospect in the 2021 NFL Draft.

He still needs to fix his mechanics on some blocks despite allowing 0 sacks or quarterback hurries on the stat sheet, but outside of improving his efficiency on blocks along with his hand movement on blocks, he's the most complete offensive tackle prospect in this draft class.

He can develop into a Jonathan Odgen type of left tackle if he fixes his mechanics at the next level because he looked amazing in every game on tape in 2019 outside of the road contest against Washington. Right now he maintains blocks for 3-5 seconds, but can maintain blocks for 7-10 seconds if he fixes his mechanics by improving his efficiency and hand placement.
Rashawn Slater, OT, Northwestern Projected Round Top 5 Pick

2020 Season Recap The 6-4 304 lb Rashawn Slater is the challenger to Penei Sewell to be the top offensive tackle drafted. Like Sewell, Slater opted out of the 2020 season with Northwestern after allowing 0 sacks, 1 quarterback hit, and 5 quarterback hurries in 2019 once Clayton Thorson left at quarterback with his only hit and 2 quarterback hurries coming against Ohio State 4-3 right end Chase Young, the second overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft. He kept Chase Young in check on a few plays in Northwestern's game against Ohio State in 2019 before opting out of 2020 thanks to the Big 10 delaying the season due to Covid-19. Slater dominated Northwestern's Pro Day with a 4.88 40-time while doing 33-reps on the bench press.

Rashawn Slater SWOT Report

Strengths: Rashawn Slater is a natural pass blocker as he did not allow a sack at left tackle after quarterback Clayton Thorson left the team with Slater making the transition from right tackle to left tackle in 2019. He only allowed 1 quarterback hit and 5 quarterback hurries with his only quarterback hit and 2 of his 5 quarterback hurries coming against Ohio State's Chase Young. Despite this, Slater was proficient in pass protection and was one of the few left tackles to neutralize Chase Young by keeping him in check for 5-7 seconds on some plays. His run blocking and zone blocking is superb as well.

Rashawn Slater's dad Reggie Slater was a former NBA player which explains why Rashawn Slater has the best pass blocking footwork and run blocking footwork of any offensive tackle in this draft. The Northwestern scholar had a 4.0 GPA and has a High football IQ.

Rashawn Slater has the best mechanics in terms of hand placement along with the best foot speed of any offensive tackle in this draft. Yes, his foot speed is better than Sewell which is why he may be the first offensive tackle drafted. He's also got experience playing both left tackle and right tackle which is more than you can say about Sewell who played left tackle in College despite making the transition from right guard in High School to left tackle in College.

Starts at multiple positions on the offensive line with a full season at both left tackle and right tackle. Keeps his back straight. Shows proper knee bend. Gets to the second level and can take on double teams. Running a 4.88 40-time put Slater right up there with Tristian Wirfs and within closing distance of Trent Williams in terms of 40-times. His 33-reps on the bench press show me that Rashawn Slater has the stamina to play offensive tackle in the NFL.

Has good power and balance. Displays the proper knee bend along with the best knee bend of any offensive tackle in this draft class. Has the lateral agility you want an offensive tackle to have. Extremely durable. His 37 starts at offensive tackle in three years at Northwestern nearly double the 20 starts Sewell had at offensive tackle in two years. Sewell played all 20 of those games at left tackle while Slater only has 11 career starts at left tackle.

Weaknesses: Rashawn Slater can only maintain blocks for 3-5 seconds. That's on most plays. On his worst plays he only maintained a block for 1-3 seconds. Despite this he showed the ability to maintain blocks for 5-7 seconds in pass protection against Chase Young. Needs to improve his leg drive as a run blocker if he wants to give teams the impression that he plays with a mean streak.

Opportunities: 2. New York Jets, 5. Cincinnati Bengals, 9. Denver Broncos, 13. Los Angeles Chargers, and 14. Minnesota Vikings. I'm pretty certain that Penei Sewell will be the first offensive tackle drafted, but with Slater having a strong Pro Day he's now in the conversation with Sewell as an option at 2 along with the quarterbacks. While the New York Jets are looking at Sewell and the quarterback options at 2 after signing wide receiver Corey Davis in Free Agency. Cincinnati was considering both Penei Sewell and Rashawn Slater at 5 from what I heard. Rashawn Slater will not get past Cincinnati in my mock draft.

Threats: I was worried that Rashawn Slater's arm length may move him to guard. One scout told me that Rashawn Slater had an arm length of 31 7/8. That turned out to be false as Rashawn Slater had an arm length of 33 inches at his Pro Day. Rashawn Slater may have had to move to guard if he had 32 inch arms or shorter, but I don't think arm length is a concern anymore since his arm length is great for a guard and ideal for an offensive tackle.

Potential Grade: 97/99

Before 2020

Rashawn Slater the son of former NBA player Reggie Slater played left guard in High School before accepting a scholarship to Northwestern. He moved over to the right side of the offensive line started 26 consecutive games at right tackle in 2017 and 2018 for the Northwestern Wildcats during Clayton Thorson's final two years at Northwestern. His pass blocking made things easier for Thorson. He also helped Justin Jackson get his fourth consecutive season of 1,000 rushing yards in 2017 while helping Isaiah Bowser average 108 rushing yards per game in 2018.

Rashawn Slater has the best mechanics in terms of hand placement along with the best foot speed of any offensive tackle in this draft. Yes, his foot speed is better than Sewell which is why he may be the first offensive tackle drafted. Rashawn Slater dominated in 2019 allowing 0 sacks, 1 quarterback hit, and 5 quarterback hurries in 2019 once Clayton Thorson left at quarterback with his only hit and 2 quarterback hurries coming against Ohio State 4-3 right end Chase Young, the second overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft. He kept Chase Young in check on a few plays in Northwestern's game against Ohio State in 2019 before opting out of 2020 thanks to the Big 10 delaying the season due to Covid-19. Like Penei Sewell he can play offensive tackle or guard on either side of the offensive line.
Christian Darrisaw, OT, Virginia Tech Projected Round 1st Round

2020 Season Recap The 6-5 314 lb Christian Darrisaw is a three year starter at left tackle. He was a blindside in High School and continued to man the left tackle position for three consecutive seasons at Virginia Tech.

Christian Darrisaw SWOT Report

Strengths: Christian Darrisaw can pass block, run block, and zone block effectively. Maintains blocks for 5-7 seconds. Has the pass blocking footwork, run blocking footwork, pass blocking strength, and run blocking strength to dominate at the next level. This guy played left tackle in High School and won the left tackle job as a freshman and has three years of experience as Virginia Tech's blindside where he had 34 college starts, perhaps 40 or more starts if we add the games he started at left tackle during his senior year of High School. He's just as durable as Rashawn Slater. Opened up running lanes for Khalil Herbert at running back.

Weaknesses: Christian Darrisaw is a pretty complete left tackle with 34 career starts at left tackle during his time at Virginia Tech. He may not have the upside that someone like Penei Sewell or Rashawn Slater has. I'd argue he's got fewer weaknesses than Sewell or Slater. Darrisaw's only weakness right now may be his pull blocking. His pull blocking needs to improve. Sewell and Slater are naturals at pull blocking, but this is one area of Christian Darrisaw's game that he can improve.

Opportunities: 13. Los Angeles Chargers, 14. Minnesota Vikings, 17. Las Vegas Raiders, 18. Miami Dolphins, and 19. Washington Football Team. Christian Darrisaw may not get selected in the top 10. There's no denying he's a top 20 talent when watching the tape after studying his film. You can honestly make an arguement for Christian Darrisaw as OT1 the same way you can make an argument ofr Penei Sewell or Rashawn Slater.

Threats: Christian Darrisaw is the safest offensive tackle prospect in this draft. His potential may be slightly lower than Penei Sewell or Rashawn Slater in terms of his ceiling or upside. I'd argue that he can be a blue chip left tackle if you fix his pull blocking.

Potential Grade: 96/99

Before 2020

Christian Darrisaw played left tackle as a senior in High School. He also started at left tackle for Virginia Tech the last two seasons.
Alex Leatherwood, OT, Alabama Projected Round 1st Round

2020 Season Recap The 6-5 312 lb Alex Leatherwood did well enough to win the Outland Award in 2020 because Penei Sewell and Rashawn Slater both opted out. He was also team captain as a second year left tackle on an offensive line that won the Joe Moore Award as the Nations best. He followed his 13-0 senior season at Alabama up with a strong showing at the 2021 Reese's Senior Bowl. He took left tackle reps in Mobile all week. Carlos Basham and Quincy Roche were the only two edge rushers that managed to get by Leatherwood during practice.

Alex Leatherwood SWOT Report

Strengths: Alex Leatherwood pass blocked for Tua Tagovailoa at left tackle in 2019 and was a run blocker for Najee Harris. He also zone blocks effectively. His 2020 tape wasn't as good as his 2019 tape. He got promoted to team captain though for the 2020 Season where he would protect the blindside of quarterback Mac Jones. High football IQ. Extremely durable. Durability is not an issue when you've started 41 career games for Alabama like Alex Leatherwood has. He's got the run blocking strength and run blocking footwork to make an immediate impact on a team with a run blocking offensive line.

Capable of playing left tackle, left guard, right guard, or right tackle with his versatility. He played right guard in 2018 before moving to left tackle to replace Jonah Williams in 2019. His 2019 tape was amazing and there were moments where I thought he outplayed Jedrick Wills Jr. in 2019 before regressing in 2020.

Keeps his back straight. Shows proper knee bend. Has an outstanding frame. He knows how to pack a punch. Displays the ideal wingspan you want an offensive tackle to have.

Weaknesses: Hand placement on passing plays could use some work. His tape in 2020 was very inconsistent. He struggled against Georgia, Tennessee, and Mississippi State with lots of poor decisions and miscommunication on some of his blocks. He finished the year on a high note with signature games against Florida, Notre Dame, and Ohio State to end the year.

Georgia 3-4 right outside linebacker Azeez Ojulari won a lot of one-on-ones against Alabama's left tackle Alex Leatherwood when lining up off the edge for Georgia. Alex Leatherwood does struggle against speed rushers which was a weakness some people thought Mike McGlinchey had heading into the 2018 NFL Draft. Only maintains blocks for 3-5 seconds instead of 5-7 seconds making him a lingering blocker in pass protection rather than a constant blocker. This is something that Penei Sewell and Rashawn Slater have a hard time with sometimes too, but they were able to maintain blocks for 5-7 seconds on a majority of snaps. Pass blocking strength and pass blocking footwork needs to improve and become more consistent if Alex Leatherwood wants to see success in the NFL.

Opportunities: 14. Minnesota Vikings, 17. Las Vegas Raiders, 18. Miami Dolphins, 19. Washington Football Team, and 21. Indianapolis Colts. Indianapolis needs a left tackle to replace Anthony Castonzo who just retired. Alex Leatherwood would be an ideal fit.

Threats: There are no threats with Alex Leatherwood. Damond Talbot of NFL Draft Diamonds called Alex Leatherwood his OT1 saying he would be the top offensive tackle in the 2021 NFL Draft back in the Summer. He may be raw, but he's got the upside of a blue chip left tackle.

Potential Grade: 95/99

Before 2018

Alex Leatherwood played right guard in 2018. After Jonah Williams declared for the 2019 NFL Draft and got picked by the Cincinnati Bengals in the first round, Leatherwood beat out Jedrick Wills Jr. in competition to become the left tackle on Alabama. Since Tua Tagovailoa threw with his left hand, that made Jedrick Wills Jr. Tua's blindside. Alex Leatherwood is coming off a strong 2019 season, and with another strong year, Leatherwood can cement his first round status.
Samuel Cosmi, OT, Texas Projected Round 1st Round

2020 Season Recap The 6-6 314 lb Samuel Cosmi played left tackle the last two seasons at Texas. Samuel Cosmi ran a 4.84 40-time and had 36-reps on the bench press at the Texas Longhorns Pro Day.

Samuel Cosmi SWOT Report

Strengths: Samuel Cosmi is a natural pass blocker. He displays superb pass blocking footwork. He can run block and zone block effectively. He was Sam Ehlinger's blindside the last two seasons at Texas. Samuel Cosmi had an 82.8, 86, and 90.7 pass blocking grade according to Pro Football Focus in his three seasons at Texas.

Samuel Cosmi is versatile enough to play left tackle or right tackle with his versatility. He opened up some lanes for Texas running back Keontay Ingram.

Extremely durable. Durability is not an issue. One more thing with Samuel Cosmi that stands out is his initial quickness. I like him more than Connor Williams and believe he can make it as a starting offensive tackle in the NFL. Made the Big 12 Honor Roll two semesters in a row leading up to this season.

Weaknesses: His run blocking strength and run blocking footwork needs to improve. Cosmi has the strength to maintain blocks for 5-7 seconds in pass protection as he's much more proficient in this area than Connor Williams who kicked inside to guard, but he's more likely to maintain blocks for 3-5 seconds once he gets to the NFL which means his pass blocking strength may need to improve at the ne. He plays too aggressive at times which leads to holding penalties see his game against Kansas State in 2019. Just Samuel Cosmi gets off-balance at times when you watch his tape.

Opportunities: 20. Chicago Bears, 21. Indianapolis Colts, 22. Tennessee Titans, 23. New York Jets, and 25. Jacksonville Jaguars. I got a top 25 grade on Samuel Cosmi as he's my final offensive tackle with Pro Bowl upside that's not raw. Pittsburgh picks at 24, but they haven't spoke with Cosmi yet. Miami is another team that hasn't shown much interest in Cosmi even though that's a little early for the Texas offensive tackle.

Threats: I don't see any threats with Samuel Cosmi. He's a pretty safe prospect in my mind.

Potential Grade: 93/99

Before 2020

Samuel Cosmi began his career at right tackle in 2018 after redshirting in 2017. The sophomore redshirt moved to left tackle in 2019. Samuel Cosmi wisely opted to return to school. Samuel Cosmi needs a strong 2020 season in order to get drafted in the first round of the 2021 NFL Draft.
Teven Jenkins, OT, Oklahoma State Projected Round 1st Round

2020 Season Recap The 6-6 310 lb Teven Jenkins has experience on both sides of the offensive line playing both left tackle and right tackle. He has more experience at right tackle may be the best run blocking offensive tackle in the 2021 NFL Draft. His dominant play in 2020 got him an invite to the 2021 Reese's Senior Bowl. He had a 5.03 and 5.06 40-time along with 34-reps on the bench press when training leading up to Oklahoma State's Pro Day.

Teven Jenkins SWOT Report

Strengths: Teven Jenkins is a natural pass blocker. His run blocking and zone blocking is superb as well. Displays outstanding pass blocking strength and run blocking strength. His pass blocking footwork and run blocking footwork is effective as well. He's a superb run blocker who is pretty complete as far as run blocking strength and run blocking footwork goes. He dominated the best edge rushers in the Big 12 on running plays. His pass protection looked good in Mobile.

Weaknesses: He's not an explosive athlete. As long as he gets his hands on a defender he should be able to keep a clean pocket or completely maul you the way he mauled Texas pass rusher Joseph Ossai. He struggeld against Ossai and Ronnie Perkins in pass protection. He's raw, but he's got the ceiling to be a starting right tackle in the NFL.

Opportunities: 18. Miami Dolphins, 20. Chicago Bears, 22. Tennessee Titans, 27. Baltimore Ravens, and 29. Green Bay Packers. Teven Jenkins is a first round prospect from the tape I've seen. Miami has shown more interest in Jenkins than they have in Cosmi. That doesn't mean they will take either offensive tackle at 18.

Threats: Teven Jenkins plays with so much intensity. I love his passion for the game. He cusses during interviews to get his point across without throwing teammates under the bus. His energy and enthuiasm for the game is infectious.

Potential Grade: 93/99

Before 2020

Teven Jenkins helped Justice Hill and Chuba Hubbard get 30 rushing touchdowns in 2018. Teven Jenkins helped Chuba Hubbard with his 2,000 yard season in 2019. He got a few starts at both offensive tackle spots. Keep an eye on Teven Jenkins moving forward in 2020.
Jalen Mayfield, OT, Michigan Projected Round 1st Round

2020 Season Recap The 6-5 320 lb Jalen Mayfield opted out of Michigan only to rejoin the team. The Michigan Wolverines right tackle has experience on both sides of the offensive line. He's better as a right tackle.

Jalen Mayfield SWOT Report

Strengths: He's raw like Teven Jenkins, but his upside is huge. Has experience at both left tackle and right tackle. Has the pass blocking, run blocking, and zone blocking you look for. Displayed superb pass blocking strength and run blocking strength at the right tackle position. His pass blocking footwork and run blocking footwork is good for a right tackle. He held his own against Ohio State when they had Chase Young and did the same against Alabama when they had Anfernee Jennings and Terrell Lewis in Michigan's Bowl game against Alabama.

Weaknesses: Struggled with pass blocking strength and pass blocking footwork in limited starts at left tackle . Michigan blew out Nebraska and Maryland in those games, but he didn't play a full game or stand out on tape. Other scouts have questions about Mayfield's stance which is one reason why Mayfield could fall to the second round. I wasn't high on Jalen Mayfield at first, but Jason Bantle told me about this guy and when I rewatched his tape, I was impressed.

Opportunities: 29. Green Bay Packers, 30. Buffalo Bills, 31. Kansas City Chiefs, 34. New York Jets, and 38. Cincinnati Bengals. Initially, I had a day 2 grade on Mayfield. The more I watched his tape, the more I was convinced he would be a good late first round prospect.

Threats: Jalen Mayfield is raw. Much rawer than Teven Jenkins. A team like Buffalo where he can learn under Darryl Williams for a year would be a good fit. Ironically enough, he got compared to Dion Dawkins, yet he reminds me of Bryan Bulaga. Kansas City is a team that is just so depleted on the offensive line that they may start Mayfield at left tackle. Putting Jalen Mayfield at left tackle could be disasterous if a team starts him right away without developing him.

Potential Grade: 93/99

Before 2020

Jalen Mayfield was the top recruit in the state of Michigan back in 2017. He enrolled into Michigan playing left tackle in 2018 before moving to right tackle in 2019. Jalen Mayfield opted out before the start of the season to prepare for the 2021 NFL Draft after the Covid-19 outbreak.
Liam Eichenberg, OT, Notre Dame Projected Round 2nd Round

2020 Season Recap The 6-6 302 lb Liam Eichenberg has three years of experience at left tackle. He only gave up 1 sack at left tackle in 2018 in his first season taking over at left tackle for Mike McGlinchey. Liam Eichenberg did not give up a sack in 2019 or 2020. You'd think that would make Eichenberg a first round pick. Well, Liam Eichenberg gave up 14 quarterback hurries in 2020 too. That's third most in the entire FBS despite being the leader of Notre Dame's offensive line at left tackle. He's described by teammates on Notre Dame's offensive line as a workaholic.

Liam Eichenberg SWOT Report

Strengths: Liam Eichenberg is a natural pass blocker. He did not have a single sack allowed in 2019 or 2020. In fat he was the only only player to go without giving up a sack in the FBS in 2020. His run blocking and zone blocking is good, but not great. Pass blocking strength, run blocking strength, pass blocking footwork, and run blocking footwork has improved in each of his past three seasons at Notre Dame. High football IQ. Keeps his back straight.

Extremely durable. Durability is not an issue. Completely neutralized Pittsburgh Panthers 4-3 defensive ends Patrick Jones II and Rashad Weaver.

Weaknesses: Struggles versus speed rushers even more so than Mike McGlinchey. This was McGlinchey's biggest weakness. It also happens to be Eichenberg's biggest weakness. He gave up 14 quarterback hurries in 2020. He does not possess elite lateral quickness. Struggled against Alabama giving up 4 quarterback hurries to freshman redshirt Christian Harris. He gave up 7 hurries to Georgia in 2019 when Notre Dame traveled to Athens.

Opportunities: 48. Las Vegas Raiders, 52. Chicago Bears, 53. Tennessee Titans, 58. Baltimore Ravens, and 61. Buffalo Bills. I'm projecting Liam Eichenberg as an NFL right tackle because he does not have as much potential as a blue chip offensive tackle like Ronnie Stanley or Mike McGlinchey who were the previous left tackles at Notre Dame.

Threats: Liam Eichenberg has upside to be a Pro Bowler, but his ceiling is much lower than Ronnie Stanley or Mike McGlinchey. The good news is Eichenberg hasn't allowed a sack since 2018. The bad news is he gave up 14 quarterback hurries in 2020 including 4 against Alabama freshman redshirt 3-4 right outside linebacker Christian Harris, a 2022 edge/linebacker prospect. With Liam Eichenberg, he feels like a boom or bust prospect because I see someone with Pro Bowl upside, but I also see someone who could be a liability if you rush him into a left tackle spot without developing him.

Potential Grade: 91/99

Before 2020

Liam Eichenberg played 5 games in 2017 after redshirting in 2016. He took over for Mike McGlinchey at left tackle and has been Ian Book's blindside the past three seasons at Notre Dame. Eichenberg got to the 2019 College Football Playoff two years ago before Clemson pitched a 38-0 shutout on Notre Dame during Trevor Lawrence's freshman season.

Liam Eichenberg didn't give up a sack in 2019. He did give up 7 quarterback hurries in a road loss against Georgia after giving up 5 hurries in the playoff loss to Clemson. Liam Eichenberg is great at protecting Ian Book's blindside. I'm not sure how successful Liam Eichenberg will be in the NFL if he continues to give up quarterback hurries. He has to clean this part of his game up in 2020.
Dillon Radunz, OT, North Dakota State Projected Round 2nd Round

2020 Season Recap The 6-5 304 lb Dillon Radunz is a three year starter at left tackle with the North Dakota State Bison. Dillon Radunz may be the biggest steal in day 2 of the 2021 NFL Draft. I have a late second round grade on Dillon Radunz, but he plays like a first round prospect on tape. He had a good week in Mobile at the 2021 Reese's Senior Bowl getting reps at left tackle, right tackle, and left guard. Dillon Radunz can play offensive tackle or guard on either side of the offensive line.

GridironXtra posted a great Dillon Radunz scouting report. GridironXtra linked our Dillon Radunz video too so you can read their report and watch film on Radunz.

I posted a film cut of North Dakota State left tackle Dillon Radunz VS Central Arkansas. Dillon Radunz was fantastic on tape.

Dillon Radunz SWOT Report

Strengths: Has the pass blocking, run blocking, and zone blocking you look for. Displayed superb pass blocking strength and run blocking strength at the left tackle position. Has the pass blocking footwork and run blocking footwork that you want in an offensive tackle. Dominated as a pass blocker and run blocker at the FCS level. He's more versatile than Joel Haeg who was the left tackle when Carson Wentz was at North Dakota State. He's also considered the best offensive tackle when it comes to pulling blocks in the draft. He did well at the 2021 Reese's Senior Bowl against FBS players despite playing in the FCS.

Weaknesses: He needs to add more muscle weight without losing his athleticism. Radunz may have the fewest weaknesses of any offensive tackles if you can look past the fact that Dillon Radunz played in the FCS you could be getting a special player.

Opportunities: 53. Tennessee Titans, 54. Indianapolis Colts, 55. Pittsburgh Steelers, 61. Buffalo Bills, and 63. Kansas City Chiefs. Dillon Radunz is a second round prospect. He could be a steal.

Threats: There are no threats with Dillon Radunz. I gave Dillon Radunz a 90/99 potential grade. Scary that you can get someone that talented near the end of the second round.

Potential Grade: 90/99

Before 2020

Dillon Radunz was a two year starter at left tackle on the 4A State Champion High School team in Minnesota. After redshirting in 2016 and missing the 2017 season at North Dakota State, he took over at left tackle in 2018 for senior redshirt quarterback Easton Stick. Dillon Radunz best year came in 2019 when he had 682 snaps, 63 pancake blocks, and 0 sacks allowed while protecting the blindside of freshman redshirt quarterback Trey Lance. North Dakota State also finished first in the FCS in rushing yards in 2019. Another strong year by Dillon Radunz and he may join Trey Lance in the first round. He'll be a day 2 pick at the very worst.
Spencer Brown, OT, Northern Iowa Projected Round 3rd Round

2020 Season Recap The 6-8 314 lb Spencer Brown did not play in 2020 due to Covid-19. Former San Francisco 49ers left tackle Joe Staley trained Spencer Brown leading up to the 2021 Reese's Senior Bowl. Spencer Brown had a good week in Mobile, but his film cut from 2019 really caught my eye.

I posted a film cut of Northern Iowa right tackle Spencer Brown VS South Dakota State. Spencer Brown had 11 pancake blocks in this one game, and I posted two of his film cuts on my Youtube channel.

Spencer Brown SWOT Report

Strengths: Sepncer Brown did good at right tackle for someone who only had 32 career starts at Northern Iowa. Good pass blocker. Has the run blocking, run blocking strength, and run blocking footwork. High football IQ. He's arguably the best downfield blocker in the draft. He's also a nasty finisher with quite the mean streak on film.

Weaknesses: He's raw, as Chef Ramsey would say. Needs to improve pass blocking strength and pass blocking footwork. Also needs to improve as a zone blocker.

Opportunities: 66. New York Jets, 69. Cincinnati Bengals, 71. Denver Broncos, 72. Detroit Lions, and 80. Las Vegas Raiders. New England forfeited pick 77 so while the Raiders would have originally had 81, they move up a spot thanks to this.

Threats: There are no threats with Spencer Brown. He's a safe prospect, but there is limited upside. He's solid enough to start though. I ended up giving him an 89/99 potential grade after he impressed me in Mobile, and that's my highest grade for a third round prospect in this draft.

Potential Grade: 89/99

Before 2020

Spencer Brown played both tight end and defensive end at Lenox High School in Iowa. He had 17 sacks as a senior. He made the switch to offensive tackle and redshirted his first season after being only 240 lbs. He gained more than 50 lbs in just one year. He was a starting right tackle for 5 games in 2017 after redshirting. Spencer Brown started 12 games in 2018. He started all 15 games in 2019. Spencer Brown could have transferred to an FBS school with Northern Iowa's season being cancelled due to Covid-19. Spencer Brown chose to remain loyal to Northern Iowa and declared for the 2021 NFL Draft. He even got former San Francisco 49ers left tackle Joe Staley to train him which led to Spencer Brown receiving an invite to the 2021 Reese's Senior Bowl.
Walker Little, OT, Stanford Projected Round 3rd Round

2020 Season Recap The 6-7 313 lb Walker Little opted out of Stanford in 2020 due to Covid-19. One has to wonder if Walker Little can recapture the dominance he had earlier in his career. If Walker Little can recapture that magic, then he could end up being a steal in the 2021 NFL Draft.

Walker Little SWOT Report

Strengths: He has proven to be an effective pass blocker, run blocker, and zone blocker. May be the most stoic offensive tackle outside of the first two rounds. He rarely moves his hands or fires his feet early.

Weaknesses: Walker Little needs to improve his strength and footwork. If Little figures out this, he will be a very good starter in the NFL. Not a road grader.

Opportunities: 87. Pittsburgh Steelers, 90. Minnesota Vikings, 94. Kansas City Chiefs, 103. Los Angeles Rams, and 115. Dallas Cowboys. I mocked Walker Little to Pittsburgh at 87.

Threats: Walker Little has durability concerns. He only played 1 game in 2019. He opted out of Stanford's 2020 season.

Potential Grade: 87/99

Before 2020

Walker Little was a five star recruit. He became the first Stanford player to start at left tackle since 2000 in 2017. Walker Little started all 12 games in 2018. Little was on his way to being a first round pick. He opted out of of 2020 due to Covid-19.
Jackson Carman, OT, Clemson Projected Round 3rd Round

2020 Season Recap The 6-6 328 lb Jackson Carman is a two-year starter at left tackle for the Clemson Tigers. He took over for Mitch Hyatt at left tackle. Pass protecting for Trevor Lawrence while run blocking to running back Travis Etienne.

Jackson Carman SWOT Report

Strengths: Jackson Carman is a natural pass blocker. He's got the run blocking, run blocking strength, and run blocking footwork. He's only got experience at left tackle, but he's a run blocking left tackle.

Extremely durable. Durability is not an issue.

Weaknesses: Pass blocking strength and run blocking strength were issues with Carman's predecessor Mitch Hyatt. I'd argue footwork is the biggest area that Jackson Carman needs to improve. Jackson Carman can be a steal in the draft if he improves this part of his game. Struggles with double teams and getting to the second level.

NFL teams may value foot speed over anything else when it comes to offensive tackles, but I value a player that maintains blocks for a long period of time. Jackson Carman is can develop into a starter, but he's not going to be a Pro Bowler.

Opportunities: 90. Minnesota Vikings, 94. Kansas City Chiefs, 103. Los Angeles Rams, 115. Dallas Cowboys, 120. New England Patriots. Jackson Carman will go between picks 90 and 120. One of my friends believes he's a late second round talent so he should go between picks 60 and 120. I mocked him to Minnesota at 90.

Threats: Jackson Carman managed to lose 25 lbs getting from 345 down to 320. He worked out for teams at Clemson's Pro Day, but that's all scouts have to go by after less than impressive game film.

Potential Grade: 86/99

Before 2020

Jackson Carman was a five star recruit from the state of Ohio. He came in as a backup to Mitch Hyatt. He took over the left tackle job from Mitch Hyatt in 2019. A strong 2020 season could cement his status as a day 2 pick.
D'Ante Smith, OT, East Carolina Projected Round 3rd Round

2020 Season Recap The 6-5 295 lb D'Ante Smith redshirted in 2016. He's got four years of experience at left tackle. His 35-inch arms and quick feet got him an invite to the 2021 Reese's Senior Bowl. D'Ante Smith lined up at left tackle, right tackle, and right guard in Mobile. D'Ante Smith can play offensive tackle or guard in the NFL.

D'Ante Smith SWOT Report

Strengths: Natural zone blocker with pass blocking and run blocking footwork. Possesses run blocking and run blocking strength. He's corrected his issues in pass protection that he had heading into the season. He's the final offensive tackle with a third round grade in my offensive tackle rankings. Displays excellent patience against pass rushers.

Weaknesses: Needs to fill out his frame. He needs to add 15 lbs of muscle while maintaining his level of play. Leaves his chest exposed too often on blocks.

Opportunities: 94. Kansas City Chiefs, 103. Los Angeles Rams, 104. Baltimore Ravens, 115. Dallas Cowboys, and 120. New England Patriots. Like Jackson Carman he's someone who could be picked anywhere between picks 90-120. His draft range isn't as high as Carman and I've seen some draft guides put a fifth round grade on Smith, but he sould be picked by then.

Threats: Tulane 4-3 right end Patrick Johnson did well against East Carolina this year. There is no game film on that East Carolina VS Tulane game outside of the highlights. D'Ante Smith held his own in Mobile though.

Potential Grade: 85/99

Before 2020

D'Ante Smith started all, but one game in his career at East Carolina at left tackle. That game was at left guard. He's got 31 career starts in his last three seasons at East Carolina with 30 at left tackle and 1 at left guard.
James Hudson, OT, Cincinnati Projected Round 4th Round

2020 Season Recap The 6-4 302 lb James Hudson got his first full season as a starting left tackle at Cincinnati. Hudson did better against Georgia 3-4 right outside linebacker Azeez Ojulari than Alex Leatherwood. He got ejected from that bowl game for targeting Ojulari near the end of the first half.

James Hudson also received an invite to the 2021 Reese's Senior Bowl. James Hudson participated in the 2021 Reese's Senior Bowl.

James Hudson SWOT Report

Strengths: James Hudson is an effective pass blocker. His run blocking and zone blocking is superb as well. Run blocking strength and run blocking footwork is there. Has the mean streak to drive defensive ends and 3-4 outside linebackers 6 feet deep.

Weaknesses: James Hudson needs to maintain blocks longer. His pass blocking strength and pass blocking footwork is good, but not great. James Hudson obviously needs to improve in these areas.

Opportunities: I had a fourth round grade on James Hudson. It's worth noting that Mark Sciubba took him in the second round of our first group mock draft prior to Free Agency with the Buffalo Bills. I've also seen some draft sites put Hudson in the late third round despite having only one year of experience as a starter.

Threats: Can play too dirty at times. He got ejected in Cincinnati's bowl game against Georgia. The technical aspects of the game are still coming to him and he may need 2-5 years as a backup before he becomes a starter.

Potential Grade: 84/99

Before 2020

James Hudson began his NCAA career as the backup right tackle to Jalen Mayfield at Michigan. He transferred to Cincinnati in 2019, but had to sit out after no paperwork for the transfer was filed. James Hudson has one year to put everything together with the Cincinnati Bearcats in 2020.
Adrian Ealy, OT, Oklahoma Projected Round 4th Round

2020 Season Recap The 6-6 326 lb Adrian Ealy started Oklahoma's opener against Kansas State at left tackle. He started the last ten games at right tackle. Adrian Ealy projects as a right tackle in the NFL even though the versatility to play on either side of the offensive line is there.

Adrian Ealy SWOT Report

Strengths: Adrian Ealy has solid short-tera quickness. Moves well and displays ideal foot speed. Has the run blocking strength and run blocking footwork that you want a run blocking offensive tackle to display.

Weaknesses: Adrian Ealy still struggles with hand usage and leverage. He had some pretty good predecessors with Orlando Brown, Bobby Evans, and Cody Ford. Adrian Ealy is a notch below those guys in terms of overall talent. He's fairly stiff and easy to manuever around.

Opportunities: I have a fourth round grade on Adrian Ealy. I see him as a backup right tackle in the NFL.

Threats: There are no threats with Adrian Ealy. He's the safest fourth round offensive tackle to draft despite being projected as a backup.

Potential Grade: 84/99

Before 2020

Adrian Ealy was a backup to Cody Ford as the teams backup right tackle. After Cody Ford got drafted by the Buffalo Bills in the second round of the 2019 NFL Draft, Adrian Ealy took over starting all 12 games at right tackle in 2019. Adrian Ealy has a big 2020 season coming up since he's expected to move to left tackle.
Brady Christensen, OT, BYU Projected Round 4th Round

2020 Season Recap The 6-6 300 lb Brady Christensen spent his junior redshirt season as Zach Wilson's left tackle. After Wilson broke out and dominated, Brady Christensen declared for the 2021 NFL Draft following his junior redshirt season.

Brady Christensen SWOT Report

Strengths: Brady Christensen has the pass blocking, pass blocking strength, pass blocking footwork you wish your left tackle would have. He still gets beat on plays at time due to aiming towards the defenders shoulders. Has the run blocking you want along with strong instincts.

Weaknesses: He tends to go aim towards the defenders shoulders when blocking. This makes him suspect on blocks inside and outside. Struggled against Peyton Turner in one-on-ones. Needs to improve his run blocking strength, run blocking footwork, and zone blocking.

Opportunities: I had a fourth round grade on Brady Christensen. He's got three years of experience as BYU's left tackle and should be the first offensive lineman drafted by BYU since 2005.

Threats: Brady Christensen is the safest left tackle you can draft i the fourth round. He's a safer prospect than James Hudson. He struggled against Payton Turner and Tarron Jackson which is why I project Brady Christensen as a very good backup left tackle at the next level.

Potential Grade: 84/99

Before 2020

After redshirting in 2017, Brady Christensen beat out Austin Hoyt for the left tackle job as a freshman redshirt. This forced Hoyt to move to right tackle in 2018. Brady Christensen was the blindside left tackle to BYU quarterback Zach Wilson. With Matt Bushman injured at tight end, look out for Brady Christensen or Zach Wilson to break out in 2020.
Jaylon Moore, OT, Western Michigan Projected Round 5th Round

2020 Season Recap The 6-4 311 lb Jaylon Moore started at left tackle on a Western Michigan offensive line that allowed 7 sacks fewest in the MAC Conference. Jaylon Moore's performance was good enough for him to earn an invite to the 2021 Reeses's Senior Bowl.

Jaylon Moore SWOT Report

Strengths: Jaylon Moore is a natural pass blocker. He's got good pass blocking strength and pass blockng footwork. Had hardly any penalties in 2020. High football IQ. Extremely durable. Durability is not an issue. Sat behind Chukwuma Okorafor for a year learing under him before starting at left tackle for Western Michigan. He had a good week at the 2021 Reese's Senior Bowl.

Weaknesses: You'd like to see him keep his arms higher and react quicker when trying to punch a defender on blocks. Other than that, I don't see any weaknesses and a complete blue chip left tackle. His run blocking, run blocking strength, and run blocking footwork needs to improve. Natural pass blocker, but needs to develop his run blocking and zone blocking.

Opportunities: I have a fifth round grade on Jaylon Moore. Jaylon Moore is my only prospect with a fifth round grade.

Threats: I don't see any threats with Jaylon Moore. He had a good week in Mobile at the 2021 Reese's Senior Bowl making him a safe prospect to draft. He's got the upside of a backup, but a very good backup who could develop into a starter with the right offensive line coach.

Potential Grade: 83/99

Before 2020

Jaylon Moore took over for Chukwuma Okorafor. Jaylon Moore will enter his third season as the starting left tackle for Western Michigan in 2020. Before Western Michigan had Okorafor they had Willie Beavers and Taylor Moton as draft prospects.
Alaric Jackson, OT, Iowa Projected Round 6th Round

2020 Season Recap The 6-5 318 lb Alaric Jackson is a four year starter at left tackle with the Iowa Hawkeyes. He did well enough to earn an invite to the 2021 Reese's Senior Bowl.

Alaric Jackson SWOT Report

Strengths: Alaric Jackson is an effective pass blocker. His run blocking and zone blocking is superb as well. The pass blocking and run blocking strength that Jackson displays checks out as he can maintain blocks for 5-7 seconds. High football IQ.

Weaknesses: Alaric Jackson needs to improve his footwork as both a pass blocker and a run blocker. Can get off-balance on blocks at times.

Opportunities: I had a sixth round grade on Alaric Jackson. It is worth pointing out that he was the left tackle when Iowa had Tristian Wirfs at right tackle.

Threats: The knee injury with Alaric Jackson concerns me. He missed a month in 2019 when Tristian Wirfs had to move to left tackle. His foot speed hasn't been the same since the knee injury.

Potential Grade: 82/99

Before 2020

Alaric Jackson has started at left tackle for Iowa since 2017. He will enter his fourth year as the starting left tackle on the Iowa Hawkeyes in 2020.
Landon Young, OT, Kentucky Projected Round 6th Round

2020 Season Recap The 6-7 321 lb left tackle was Kentucky's blindside. This Kentucky Wildcats left tackle could be a late round pick.

Landon Young SWOT Report

Strengths: Landon Young was the first team captain in Kentucky school history. Young was voted team captain on a Kentucky offensive line that featured left guard Logan Stenberg, 2021 NFL Draft prospect Drake Jackson at center, and right tackle Darian Kinnard who is one of the top seniors on Kentucky's offensive line in the 2022 NFL Draft. Landon Young is an effective pass blocker. His pass blocking strength was there in 2016. Maintains blocks for 5-7 seconds. Did a good job run blocking for Benny Snell Jr. Run blocking, run blocking strength, and run blocking footwork is good.

Weaknesses: Inconsistent pass blocking footwork. He has plays where he uses his footwork to buy the quarterback more time in the pocket on plays as well as other plays where he struggled at left tackle against quality edge rushers in the SEC at 4-3 right end and 3-4 right outside linebacker. Struggles with double teams. Needs to improve his zone blocking and pull blocking.

Opportunities: I have a sixth round grade on Landon Young. Young is draftable when you consider he was a team captain on a pretty strong Kentucky Wildcats offensive line.

Threats: Landon Young suffered a left knee that kept him out for all of 2018 after only starting 6 games in 2017. He's been durable the last two years at Kentucky. He also wasn't in the 2021 Reese's Senior Bowl. He's good enough to get drafted, but will be a late round pick.

Potential Grade: 81/99

Before 2020

Landon Young started 6 games at left tackle in 2017. A left knee injury kept him out for 2018 so he redshirted that year. The junior redshirt got voted the first team captain in the history of the Kentucky Wildcats.
Tommy Doyle, OT, Miami Ohio Projected Round 7th Round

2020 Season Recap The 6-8 326 lb Tommy Doyle only played 3 games for Miami Ohio in 2020. He was considered one of the top prospects in the MAC conference for the 2021 NFL Draft. He rounds out my offensive tackle rankings.

Tommy Doyle SWOT Report

Strengths: Has ideal size. Pancakes defenders at times. Miami Ohio's offensive line only allowed 2 sacks per game in 2019. Tommy Doyle kept Buffalo pass rusher Malcolm Koonce in check preventing Buffalo's edge rusher at 4-3 defensive end from sacking Brett Gabbert, the younger brother of Blaine and Tyler Gabbert. Brett Gabbert is also the starting quarterback on the Miami Ohio Redhawks, but let's get back to Tommy Doyle since he's got a shot to become the eighth Miami Ohio Redhawk drafted since Ben Roethlisberger.

Tommy Doyle is a good zone blocker. He's versatile enough to play left tackle or right tackle in the NFL.

Weaknesses: Needs to maintain blocks for a longer period. Can maintain blocks for 3-5 seconds, but not 5-7 seconds. Struggles as a run blocker. Run blocking strength and run blocking footwork need to improve.

Opportunities: I have a seventh round grade on Tommy Doyle. He's someone who could be a late round pick.

Threats: Tommy Doyle had a foot injury in 2017. If he gets drafted or makes an NFL roster as a UDFA in Training Camp, you will have to pay attention to his foot speed.

Potential Grade: 80/99

Before 2020

His father played baseball and his mother played Volleyball at Minnesota. He grew up in Edina, Minnesota and could have headed to the NHL instead. Tommy Doyle started out at right tackle before moving to left tackle in 2020. A big senior season could get Tommy Doyle drafted.

2021 NFL Draft: Offensive Tackle Rankings

Other Content