Will Clapp, OL, LSU: 2018 NFL Draft Scouting Report

Will Clapp is hoping to further the tradition of top LSU offensive linemen in the NFL. Is his scouting report worth getting excited about?

Position:  OG

School:   LSU

Year:

Height:  6’5″

Weight:  309 lbs

STRENGTHS:

• Has good size for an interior lineman with a well-proportioned body. Should be able to handle the rigors of the NFL level without much concern.
• Show quality technique in his pass sets that allows him to keep the pocket clean from his angle. His footwork and hand use are usually solid.
• Uses his hands well, getting a full extension of his arms to keep the defenders off his body and limiting their ability to use spins.
• Shows an awareness and fluidity when slipping blocks to reach the second level, often helping spring big runs for his running backs.

Much of what Clapp does best is on display here. He uses his good feet and technique to wall off the first defender, passing him off to a teammate then shows alertness to get to the next level where he picks up the defensive back, springing his running back for a big gain against a normally tough Alabama defense. If he can end up in an offense that utilizes lots of these concepts, he can start for a long time.

• Does a good job of selling his blocks before jumping out to lead screen passes. Can do this consistently and makes sure to maintain blocks down the field.
• Position versatile. He logged time for LSU at both center and guard. This will increase his value to any team. They know they can move him around if needed.

WEAKNESSES:

• Despite his size, he doesn’t generally get a lot of push in the run game. He has enough technique to maneuver defenders out of a hole but doesn’t exhibit raw power.
• Has a problem keeping his pad level down. This allows defenders to get leverage on him too often, opening him up to strong bull rushes.
• Though he can often get out in space with his functional quickness and athleticism, he doesn’t always take good angles. This allows defenders to slip past him too often.
• Quicker defensive linemen are a serious problem for him. They are often able to set him up for counters that shoot gaps into the backfield.
• Doesn’t always have his head on a swivel. Can be susceptible to stunts and delayed blitzes. Needs to work on trusting what he sees.
• Has a bad habit of ending up on the ground too much. Hints at a serious lack of balance and inability to handle shock the cluttered line of scrimmage.

Pro Comparison:  Clint Boling

Boling isn’t anything special but he’s proven he can start in the NFL and contribute to his team. He’s capable of playing both guard and center and is at his best using athleticism and technique to his advantage. It’s when he’s asked to utilize power as a run blocker or to anchor against power rushers that he tends to get himself in trouble. Those will be the same problems that Clapp encounters in the pros.

Projection:  4th Round

Clapp doesn’t look like he’s going to be a star at the next level, but good teams aren’t made up entirely of stars. They need role players who can do their job reasonably well. That is where he fits in. He’s a consistent starter at center or guard. If he can improve his power base he might become something more than that. Otherwise, he’s just a quality offensive line addition.