2011 NFL Draft Scouting Report: Lee Ziemba, Auburn
By Editorial Staff
6-5 320lbs Senior
Pros:
Auburn fans have gotten use to seeing Lee Ziemba holding down a tackle spot along their offensive line as he has started every game the past 3 seasons. Ziemba has prototypical height and weight for the tackle position. He is deceptively quick which allows him to get into position ahead of most defenders. In pass protection Ziemba has a violent initial punch that gets rushers off balance. He has the quickness to mirror speed rushers and prevent them from getting to the quarterback. He has very good technique which he spends a lot of time perfecting. Ziemba uses his technique to enhance his run blocking ability. He has good recognition of when he needs to get off his initial block and move onto the second level. Ziemba has the ability to play both the left and right tackle position but would fit best at left tackle where he can protect many quarterbacks blind side. The fact that he faces good competition each week in the SEC is a plus!
Cons:
Ziemba needs to spend more time in the weight room getting stronger. He doesn’t do a good job against strong bull rushers and can sometime find himself pushed back into the quarterback in pass protection. In the running game he has trouble pushing defenders off the ball and will never be considered a mauler. He uses his quickness rather than strength to open up running lanes. Ziemba doesn’t have a nasty streak that a lot of NFL teams like to see in their linemen.
Thoughts:
I think Ziemba is a nice tackle prospect and can hold down a spot in the NFL for many years. He doesn’t have the upside of a lot of prospects but you know you will be getting a smart and durable player.
Projected Round:
Ziemba could hear his name called as early as the 2nd round.