There is a ton of talent in the 2020 NFL Draft on the offensive line. I rank my top 50 prospects, with a handful of centers in the top 12.
Across all three offensive line positions, there are many talented players throughout the 2020 NFL Draft. Top tackles, top centers and some sleepers, teams should be able to find players that can contribute early and often in nearly every round.
There is a ton of buzz about the top four tackle prospects in Jedrick Wills Jr., Tristan Wirfs, Mekhi Becton and Andrew Thomas, but there are many prospects that aren’t too far out of that conversation. There is a clear OT5 to me that isn’t too far back from that top four. And I really love the top center options in this 2020 NFL Draft as well.
Before we dive into my complete offensive line rankings and analysis, I will take a second to break down my rankings by position beforehand. Tackles, guards and centers are very different players with their own unique skill sets. This way, I will let you know which position I think a prospect is best fit to be at the next level and can break it down position by position.
Offensive Tackles
- Andrew Thomas, Georgia
- Jedrick Wills Jr., Alabama
- Tristan Wirfs, Iowa
- Mekhi Becton, Louisville
- Josh Jones, Houston
- Lucas Niang, TCU
- Austin Jackson, USC
- Prince Tega Wanogho, Auburn
- Matt Peart, UConn
- Ezra Cleveland, Boise State
- Alex Taylor, South Carolina State
- Cameron Clark, Charlotte
- Isaiah Wilson, Georgia
- Ben Bartch, St. Johns (MIN)
- Saahdiq Charles, LSU
- Scott Frantz, Kansas State
- Tyre Phillips, Mississippi State
- Trey Adams, Washington
- Yasir Durant, Missouri
- Charlie Heck, North Carolina
- Justin Herron, Wake Forest
- Colton McKivitz, West Virginia
Guard
- Logan Stenberg, Kentucky
- Hakeem Adeniji, Kansas
- Damien Lewis, LSU
- Jonah Jackson, Ohio State
- John Simpson, Clemson
- Robert Hunt, Louisiana-Lafayette
- Kevin Dotson, Louisiana-Lafayette
- Netane Muti, Fresno State
- Michael Onenwu, Michigan
- Ben Bredeson, Michigan
- Jon Runyan, Michigan
- Tremayne Anchrum, Clemson
- Calvin Throckmorton, Oregon
- Shane Lemieux, Oregon
- Gage Cervenka, Clemson
- Darryl Williams, Mississippi State
- Jack Driscoll, Auburn
- Kyle Murphy, Rhode Island
- Solomon Kindley, Georgia
Center
- Cesar Ruiz, Michigan
- Lloyd Cushenberry III, LSU
- Tyler Biadasz, Wisconsin
- Nick Harris, Washington
- Matt Hennessey, Temple
- Jake Hanson, Oregon
- Sean Pollard, Clemson
- Keith Ismael, San Diego State
- Zach Shackelford, Texas
This first group of 2020 NFL Draft offensive line prospects are the players who I think are legitimate first-round picks. This isn’t necessarily a prediction, but these are my favorite linemen that I feel deserve to be taken in the first round of the 2020 NFL Draft.
1. Andrew Thomas, Georgia
Andrew Thomas is incredibly productive in the run game. He is big and powerful with great hands and great lower body drive. He is actually very mobile for his size. He is very aggressive and is effective at getting to the second level.
As a pass blocker, Thomas uses his length and his strong hands very well. He may not be the most technically sound with his footwork and can leave himself susceptible to counters and inside moves (which is why he has fallen down some boards a bit) but he always seems to get the job done. He rarely actually gets beat in pass pro and can clean those inconsistencies up very easily with good coaching at the next level.
One of the few true left tackles in this draft, his value could heighten for teams that need a player on that side of the line. Thomas is a very well-rounded prospect with a high floor and a high ceiling.
The fact that some evaluators think that he has weaknesses in his game just shows more promise to me as he continues to grow at the next level. If he gets even better in the coming years, he could become one of the most dominant tackles in the NFL and in the 2020 NFL Draft.
2. Jedrick Wills Jr., Alabama
Jedrick Wills Jr. is a very smart blocker. He has great vision when it comes to stunts and blitzes and is good with using the defender’s momentum against him. He has sound footwork in pass protection with powerful hands and a strong core to keep the defender at bay.
A right tackle at Alabama, protecting the blindside of southpaw quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, there is no question in my mind that Wills can make a smooth transition to the left side if a team so desires.
As a run blocker, Wills is a mauler. He uses those powerful hands and a strong core to drive defenders back and turn them whichever direction he wants them. He moves fairly well and is good at getting to the second level in the run game.
Wills has a very, very high floor as a tackle prospect, regardless of which side of the line he plays on. He is great in pass protection and as a run blocker and has a very good shot at being the first tackle off the board in the 2020 NFL Draft.
3. Cesar Ruiz, Michigan
Cesar Ruiz may be the most well-rounded interior offensive line prospect in the 2020 NFL Draft. He has impressive size and even better athleticism.
He is a great mover who is very effective in space. As a puller, on screens and even just slipping up to the second level, Ruiz is very effective, exhibited by his 5.08 40 and sub-8.00 second 3-cone drill times.
He has quick and powerful hands and uses them well as both a run and pass blocker. He may struggle a bit against wider body defensive tackles as he is a bit narrow in the shoulders.
He would definitely benefit from having two big and powerful guards beside him like he did at Michigan. But overall, Ruiz shows the technique, athleticism and enough power to thrive at the next level and will likely be a first-round pick in the 2020 NFL Draft.
4. Lloyd Cushenberry III, LSU
Lloyd Cushenberry III is a very well-rounded prospect as a center in the 2020 NFL Draft. First, he earned the number 18 from LSU, given to selfless players who display sound core values on and off the field, playing “the Tiger way” (although as an offensive lineman he was unable to wear the number and had to settle for a patch). He is about as sound of a player as he is as a leader and a teammate.
He is very powerful in the center of the best offensive line of 2019, dropping a solid anchor in pass protection and being a driving force in the run game. He has very powerful hands, long arms and a strong core to keep defenders at bay. He isn’t the best mover and could get beaten by quicker internal rushers at the next level, but Cushenberry almost always seems to get the job done, most of the time completely on his own.
He is almost impossible to bull rush and uses that power and balance to drive and turn defenders in the run game. Cushenberry is a player that any team would want in their locker room and could even play guard if a team really wants him to. Cushenberry is right there with Cesar Ruiz at the top of the 2020 NFL Draft center board. Where Ruiz may have a bit more upside, it may come down to scheme fit for a team looking for a center, with Ruiz the better mover and Cushenberry the more powerful player.
5. Tristan Wirfs, Iowa
Tristan Wirfs is an incredible run blocker. He is an outstanding mover as displayed in his incredible 2020 NFL Draft Scouting Combine performance. He is an outstanding puller and very effective when he can be a lead blocker into the hole. He is a nasty blocker who continues to drive his legs and run his feet until his defender is out of the play or on the ground.
Wirfs played primarily right tackle at Iowa but did start at left tackle when Alaric Jackson was out with an injury. That recent experience would help with the transition should a team want to play him at left tackle at the next level. While he isn’t the most sound pass blocker I’ve ever seen, he has tackle size and length and has some good traits to build on at the next level. He has good footwork, strong hands and a solid base to hold his ground against power rushers and to stay in front of speed rushers.
He certainly could still improve as a pass protecting tackle, and that learning curve would only increase with a move to the left side, but I think he has a future as a tackle in the NFL. While many evaluators see him more as a guard, where he would be able to use his movement abilities even more, I think that is just a fail-safe in the case that he doesn’t pan out at tackle for whatever reason out of the 2020 NFL Draft.
6. Mekhi Becton, Louisville
Mekhi Becton is an absolute athletic monster in the 2020 NFL Draft. He is 6-foot-7 and over 360 lbs and ran a 5.10 40. He put up 23 bench reps with nearly 36-inch arms. As an offensive tackle prospect, he is less impressive.
He has a lot of tendencies that are not desirable and will need time to improve his technique as a blocker at the next level. Becton wins with size, athleticism and force. He has decent footwork in his drop in pass sets but then relies on his size and upper body strength to shield his quarterback and throw defenders out of the way. At his size, he makes it easy for defenders to get into his body and drive him straight back.
He does have strong hands and good length when he does use them, but too often relies on force rather than technique. As a run blocker, Becton has shown flashes of being a dominant force. He oddly resorts to cut blocks very frequently when on the backside of the run but uses his athleticism and power well to open holes. He is good in space and getting to the next level and can move and turn defenders with his strong hands and length.
Becton is definitely a project, but one that will intrigue absolutely every team in the league. His blend of size, speed and athleticism is unheard of, and if they think they can coach him up, teams likely see a potential best tackle in the league. His upside will likely lead to him being a top 10 pick in the 2020 NFL Draft, but I wouldn’t be so comfortable relying on him heavily early in his career.
7. Josh Jones, Houston
Josh Jones is a very intriguing, well-rounded left tackle prospect in the 2020 NFL Draft. He is a great mover who is very effective as a run blocker. He has strong, effective hands and good drive to send defenders backward. He gets to the next level and finishes his blocks to the ground. In pass protection, he is efficient with solid footwork and strong hands.
He’s not overly athletic in his pass sets but gets the job done. He is an effective hand fighter and doesn’t allow defenders to get into his body. When an edge rusher tries to bend their way by him, he’s very good at using their weight and momentum against them, finishing them to the ground. He’s good at getting out in space and taking out a defender.
Overall, Jones’ upside isn’t quite as high as some similar prospects and his floor isn’t as high as others, but he is a starting-caliber left tackle who will excel in a more run-first, quick passing game, still with plenty of room to grow coming out of the 2020 NFL Draft.
8. Lucas Niang, TCU
Lucas Niang is an absolute people mover at right tackle. He is a dynamic force in the run game, with great strength and drive to make an impact when engaged and is a very effective mover when pulling and getting to the second level. He is always looking for a defender to put a hat on and is dominant once he is able to do so.
As a pass blocker, Niang could still use some refinement in his sets but is generally pretty effective. He is smart and is good at recognizing stunts and blitzes and putting himself where he needs to be. He needs to be a bit more sound and consistent with his technique, but he has agile, hand fights well to keep defenders out of his body and has the strength throughout his body to hold his own and keep defenders at bay.
Niang’s senior season was cut short after undergoing hip surgery, so his health is likely the main concern for evaluators. With everything going on, it may be hard to get good word on his physical, so the medical concerns may cause him to fall farther than he should, but there is still some first round buzz around Niang. Niang will probably stay put on the right side of the line, and is the best right tackle in the 2020 NFL Draft outside of the top four prospects.
9. Tyler Biadasz, Wisconsin
Despite having hip surgery in the Spring of 2019, Tyler Biadasz came back and was given the Rimington Award as the best center in the nation, and I see why. The leader of arguably the most dominant rushing game in college football, Biadasz does just about everything right as the center.
He moves incredibly well in the run game. He is an excellent puller and lead blocker and is great at slipping up and reaching the second level. He is a very smart player, baiting defenders into poorly positioning themselves and then using their own momentum against them to take and keep them out of the play. Once he gets engaged he is a good drive blocker with great upper body strength to throw defenders to the ground.
In pass protection, Biadasz exhibits his high football IQ, recognizing blitzes and stunts and adjusting accordingly. He has strong hands to keep defenders away from the quarterback but does struggle at times against powerful bull rushes and stronger internal defenders in pass protection and occasionally in the run game.
Maybe that is due to his hip surgery that has apparently caused him to fall out of the graces of most evaluators after being a top offensive line prospect beforehand but even given that weakness, Tyler Biadasz could be a very solid starting center (or guard) right away at the next level.
Again, I’m not sure why Biadasz is no longer viewed anywhere close to where he was in recent years, falling as far as the fourth or fifth round in many mocks. Maybe his medical reports are not clear. But he looked pretty healthy to me in 2019, and if that is the player I’m getting, I’d be fine with using an early second-round pick, or even a first as a center-needy team, on Tyler Biadasz in the 2020 NFL Draft.
In this second tier of 2020 NFL Draft offensive linemen, you can still find a lot of starting-caliber players at all three positions. I would have these guys coming off the board on day two of the 2020 NFL Draft.
10. Nick Harris, Washington
What Nick Harris lacks in size as an offensive lineman, he makes up for in effort and athleticism. Harris is one of the most impressive movers in the 2020 NFL Draft. He gets out in space in a flash and is very effective at locating and hitting a target, and turning and sustaining his blocks to open lanes for the ball carrier.
In the run game and even if there isn’t any imminent threat for him to block in pass protection, Harris flies to the second level, always looking to make an impact. He is rather short for an offensive lineman and lacks the desired length as a pass blocker, but he uses his low center of gravity and quick hands to get a leg up on his opponent and keeps them at bay. He does struggle at times against size and power, which could be an issue as an interior lineman.
However, Harris has enough valuable traits to be a top center prospect in the 2020 NFL Draft. He has experience at guard as well if a team wants to play him there, but his quickness and intelligence lead me to believe that he will find success as a center in the NFL.
11. Matt Hennessey, Temple
Matt Hennessey is an outstanding mover at the center position. He excels at getting out in space and being a big-play-springing blocker as a puller, on screen plays and at the second level. He does a great job of getting to the blocking point and getting horizontal to shield his ball carrier and open holes.
He’s not overly powerful, but as an effective mover who can gain some momentum to make very impactful and sustained blocks. He has good size, quick and strong hands and decent length to keep pass rushers at bay, but will struggle at times against powerful bull rushes. If he can add some more weight and strength to his frame while still maintaining his athletic ability, Hennessey could be a very reliable starting center in the NFL, one of the best in the 2020 NFL Draft.
12. Austin Jackson, USC
Austin Jackson is a young and very raw, but talented left tackle prospect. He is a pass-blocking left tackle with very clear potential, but some inconsistencies in his game currently.
As a run blocker, he can hold his own but isn’t overly effective or dominant. He has some good reps where he is able to use his athleticism to get out in front and make some big-play opening blocks, but he isn’t a down after down bruiser in the run game.
In pass protection, he generally has sound technique. He has good length and athleticism and has shown reps where he absolutely locks up his opposition. He has good hands, great feet and a lot of intangibles that will translate to the next level. But he is far from perfect. He has some head-scratching reps where he gets flat out beat to the outside or with a simple counter move to the inside.
He shows that he is capable of exhibiting sound technique, but lacks snap-to-snap consistency, often getting beat by some of the more talented and dynamic pass rushers he faced. But he seemed to learn quickly, seeing a move for the second time after getting beat the first and making the proper adjustments to stop it.
That is the sort of quick learning that he will have to continue to display as he transitions to the NFL. He is far from perfect right now but has a very high ceiling as a blindside protector at the next level in the future coming out of the 2020 NFL Draft.
13. Prince Tega Wanogho, Auburn
Prince Tega Wanogho is a very young and intriguing left tackle prospect in the 2020 NFL Draft. With a background in basketball and soccer, recently coming to the U.S. and even more recently beginning to play football, Tega is raw but shows a ton of promise.
While he is still learning the nuances of the position, Tega already shows that he is a cerebral player, recognizing stunts and adjusting accordingly. He has shorter than optimal arms for a tackle, but generally, he has good size and is a great athlete.
Even if he gets beat, Tega is athletic enough to recover quickly. He has great hands and rarely allows defenders to get into his body. He isn’t a bruiser in the run game, but he uses his athleticism to his advantage. He is a great mover and very effective in space. He is still effective as a straight run blocker and they moved him around a bit, usually to the strong side of a run as an extra tackle on that side of the line.
Prince Tega Wanogho still has a lot to learn, but if he is allowed to learn and grow and has good coaching, he could become a very good starting left tackle in the NFL.
14. Matt Peart, UConn
I am very intrigued by the potential of Matt Peart. Peart has incredible length and size, at 6-foot-7, 318 lbs and nearly 37-inch arms. While he played right tackle at UConn, Peart has the potential to be a very reliable left tackle down the road at the next level.
He is very athletic for his size (5.06 40) and can move his feet quickly to stay in front of speed rushers and the length to keep any defender at bay. At times he looks very smooth in his pass sets, showing great potential. He needs to be more consistent, sometimes getting beat with a variety of moves, but the flashes are there.
In the run game, Peart is very effective. He doesn’t have the strength to be overly dominant, but he uses his length to get his hands on defenders and effectively moves and turns them to open up running lanes. He is a good mover and effectively gets to the second level.
Peart has experience playing both left and right tackle at UConn and should be able to play either in the NFL. While he may need a little bit of time to fill out his time and develop the nuances of the position, Peart has a ton of potential and could become a very viable starting left tackle sooner rather than later coming out of the 2020 NFL Draft.
15. Logan Stenberg, Kentucky
Starting every game at left guard for the Kentucky Wildcats for the past three seasons, Logan Stenberg is about as consistent as they come, especially as a run blocker.
He is both a dominant people mover and a sufficient mover himself. He has strong hands and a powerful base to grab and drive defenders backwards. He moves fairly well for a big guy, excelling as an occasional puller. He always seems to turn his defender just enough one way or the other to create a hole for the ball carrier.
Kentucky seemed to be a run-first offense with a mobile quarterback throughout Stenberg’s tenure with the program, so true pass sets were few and far between, mostly coming in 2017 in his first year as a starter. He did struggle at times against speed rushers, but he certainly has a workable anchor to hold his own against power rushers.
To me, Stenberg has a fairly high ceiling with a very high floor. He still has some things he can improve, but is already a starting-caliber guard, making him a very intriguing NFL prospect in the 2020 NFL Draft.
16. Hakeem Adeniji, Kansas
Despite starting every game of his Kansas career at tackle (left and right), many evaluators think Hakeem Adeniji’s future in the league is at guard. I have to agree. Adeniji looks like a guard playing tackle, and I think in the right situation he could become one of the best guards in the league out of this 2020 NFL Draft.
He is very physical with great lower body drive, making him a real people mover in the run game. He isn’t all that effective as a puller and mover in a zone run scheme, but he can put a hat on a hat and dominate the person in front of him. He was asked to move a lot at Kansas so he is definitely capable, but that is not his strong suit.
As a pass blocker, Adeniji is effective, particularly when he is able to get his hands on the defender. His technique is a bit inconsistent but the flashes he shows will be very beneficial if he is moved inside. At tackle, he would get beat to the outside by speed and would struggle to get his hands out there, but against power rushers, Adeniji was great at standing his ground.
I really see a bright future for Adeniji inside at guard with his diverse background and great power. Now I’m not saying he is incapable of playing tackle at the next level. I just believe that he has the traits to be a really good guard very quickly in the NFL. Adeniji may fill a swing tackle/versatile sixth lineman role early in his career, but I think he has the makings of a starting NFL guard.
17. Ezra Cleveland, Boise State
Ezra Cleveland is a very athletic left tackle prospect who excels as a pass blocker and fits best in a zone run scheme. As a pass rusher with great athleticism, Cleveland exhibits impressive footwork to keep speed rushers in front of him.
He usually doesn’t get beat by finesse or counter moves, able to keep his defender in front of him with enough strength to hold his ground. Strength and power, however, are not his strong suit. He played with a very lean frame that did not provide the type of core strength needed to be a driving force as a blocker in the pass or run game. This is a large reason why Cleveland is not a force as a run blocker as it stands, and must add more weight and play strength to his frame at the next level.
At the 2020 NFL Draft Scouting Combine, Cleveland weighed in at 311 lbs and put up 30 reps on the bench press, but that does not dispel my concerns with his strength. He had good pop with his hands both as a pass and run blocker, but again, he is not overly powerful with his lower body. He moves well as a run blocker, effective as a puller and getting out in space for screens. He even received a carry on a reverse, so his coaching staff seemed confident in his athleticism and movement skills at Boise State.
Cleveland has a lot of promising traits and has a solid foundation to build on at the next level. He has some pretty clear improvements he needs to make, primarily with his body, before I’m comfortable having him play left tackle down after down, but not far down the line I could see him as a legitimate starter.
18. Damien Lewis, LSU
Damien Lewis is a very thick and powerful guard, especially as a run blocker. He has the strength and power throughout his body to move mountains in the run game. He isn’t an overly effective mover, so he will thrive in a straight gap scheme in the NFL.
As a pass blocker, I am impressed from time to time. He is very good when he is able to get his hands on the defender and can control the point of attack. He has the hands and base to withstand concerted efforts from some of the best interior rushers in the nation when he is in that position.
But when he doesn’t land his hands and take control quickly, he can be a real liability in pass protection. Against blitzers and more explosive defensive linemen, Lewis can get taken off guard and get blown up into the backfield. His heavy feet don’t move well laterally, either, leading to struggles against speed and finesse moves.
Overall, Lewis’ upside and dominance in the run game outweigh his inconsistencies as a pass blocker, and will likely be a day two pick in the 2020 NFL Draft who will succeed in a gap run scheme with high-level blockers near him to help out in pass protection.
19. Jonah Jackson, Ohio State
After spending most of his college career at Rutgers, Jonah Jackson stayed in the Big Ten and transferred to Ohio State for 2019. Jackson is a very cerebral blocker, who always seems to know where to be. In pass protection, he is adept at recognizing and picking up blitzes and stunts, and if he doesn’t have someone directly in front of him he knows where to go to help.
He almost has some tackle traits in pass protection, with sound footwork and strong hands. He has played both guard positions at Rutgers and Ohio State, and I think he could be a very good center at the next level.
He is far from a bruising force in the run game, winning more as a finesse blocker with good range and reach. He is a quality mover, and with his football IQ, I could see him at center between two bigger and more dominant guards. Nonetheless, Jackson exhibits desirable qualities as a zone run blocker and especially as an internal pass protector and will likely be a day two pick in the 2020 NFL Draft.
20. John Simpson, Clemson
John Simpson is an absolute force in the run game at left guard. He excels at driving defenders back and turning them how he wants them with his powerful hands and strong lower body.
Even at 6-foot-4 and 321 lbs, the big Simpson moves very well for his size. He is a great puller, gets to the second level and even capable at getting out in front of screens.
Simpson uses his size and length well as a pass blocker, keeping defenders at a distance. He doesn’t always get a great burst out of his stance, but once he gets engaged he drives his defender back.
Simpson is a scheme diverse guard who is a mauler in the run game and effective in pass protection. Simpson looks like a legitimate starter to me at the next level, and probably will not be picked as high as he should be in the 2020 NFL Draft.
In the third tier of offensive line prospects for the 2020 NFL Draft, teams can find players that will definitely bring something to the table but may not be sure-fire starters right away.
21. Robert Hunt, Louisiana-Lafayette
Robert Hunt has experience at both guard and tackle at Louisiana-Lafayette, but his future is likely at guard at the next level. Hunt is a force in the run game with strong hands and powerful drive. He is effective at turning defenders to open holes.
In pass protection, Hunt doesn’t quite have the length and agility to be an effective tackle. When pass rushers pushed the edge and forced Hunt onto an island, he left himself very susceptible to inside counter moves. By bumping in to guard, Hunt can still use some of the pass pro qualities learned at tackle but won’t often be forced out in space.
He has strong hands that he uses well and has a powerful base. Hunt is a decent mover but is better at rolling downhill to the second level or turning out his blocks than really moving laterally.
Hunt has some versatility to him, able to play at tackle or guard and having the traits to get by in nearly any offensive scheme. I think he fits best as a gap scheme guard that could develop into a legitimate NFL starter on the offensive line out of the 2020 NFL Draft.
22. Kevin Dotson, Louisiana-Lafayette
Kevin Dotson is an absolute mauler. He is very powerful throughout his large, filled frame and can move mountains in the run game. He is an okay mover but is most effective when he can fire out of his stance and quickly get his hands on his opponent. He has very strong hands and a powerful core to handle pass rushers and to make impactful drive blocks as a run blocker.
When he is able to work downhill, he delivers bruising one-timers and dominant, sustained blocks down the field. Dotson is a bit scheme-specific in the 2020 NFL Draft, but he has the makings to excel as a starting guard in a gap scheme, run-first offense in the NFL.
23. Alex Taylor, South Carolina State
Alex Taylor is a raw but very promising tackle prospect in the 2020 NFL Draft. With a background in basketball and just a brief history of playing football, Taylor is incredibly athletic but still has a lot to learn. He has optimal NFL tackle size and length with a good blend of strength and athleticism.
In pass sets, Taylor is very impressive with his lateral quickness and long arms, staying in front of rushers. His footwork at this stage in his playing career is already impressive and he will only get more technically sound with NFL level coaching, something he did not receive at his small school of South Carolina State.
As a run blocker, Taylor is very good at turning defenders to create holes. He has potential as a very effective mover on pulls and screens and has the size to dominate man on man as he continues to fill out his frame.
Alex Taylor has great potential as a tackle prospect at the next level. He would benefit from being drafted in the 2020 NFL Draft by a team with solid starting tackles in place, allowing him to take time to develop and to learn from them, as well as his coaches.
24. Cameron Clark, Charlotte
Cameron Clark is a very promising tackle prospect from the small school of Charlotte. He was a two-year captain and three-year starter at left tackle and is a dominant force in both the run and pass game.
As a run blocker, Clark excels at getting out of his stance quickly, getting his hands on his opponent and turning them out to create a hole to his inside. He is very effective once engaged, driving his legs and moving the defender back and usually all the way to the ground. He’s not a great mover, so he would likely be more effective in a gap run scheme than a zone-blocking scheme. As a run blocker, Clark has some guard traits. But his effectiveness as a pass blocker leads me to believe that he has a future as a tackle.
Maybe on the right side, but tackle nonetheless. He generally has good footwork and technique. He’s not the most agile, so he is a bit susceptible to some inside and counter moves. But overall, Clark is effective in pass protection, with long arms, strong hands and a powerful base. Cameron Clark has the makings to be an under-the-radar starting-caliber tackle prospect in the 2020 NFL Draft.
25. Netane Muti, Fresno State
When on the field, Netane Muti is a real mauler in the run game. After seeing him knockout 44 reps on the bench press, the tape backs up Muti’s upper body strength. He has very controlling hands and uses his upper body strength to manipulate defenders to open holes in the run game and to control them in pass protection.
Muti will struggle at the next level against more shifty defenders that will make it difficult for him to get his hands on them. He isn’t fleet of foot laterally and that could hurt him in pass protection. He isn’t much of a mover, really just moving down the field to the second level. Muti thrives when he can fire out and get his hands on his opponent, giving him control at the point of attack.
Muti will excel as a power blocker in a gap scheme in the NFL if he can prove that he can stay healthy. Muti played just one full college season, redshirting his freshman season with an Achilles injury, tore his Achilles after two games in 2018 and started three games in 2019 before missing the remainder of the season with a Lisfranc injury.
People may be letting Muti’s bench press performance and some eye-popping blocking ability on tape overshadow the fact that the best ability is availability. Medicals will be a real issue this year, so unless he is clear as glass, teams may assume he is made of it and steer clear despite his very promising potential.
26. Michael Onenwu, Michigan
At 6-foot-3 and 344 lbs, Michael Onwenu is a thick and compact force on the inside. He is wide and has great length for a guard. He uses that length and a strong upper body very well in pass protection and as a run blocker.
Once he gets his hands engaged, the defender seems helpless. He can hold his defender in one spot in pass pro and turn or drive them back if he’s looking to open a hole in the run game. Even with his strong core and powerful base, Onwenu can get a little top-heavy and show too much lean that will be taken advantage of at the next level.
Onwenu moves fairly well for his size but would be much more effective at the next level in a straight gap scheme where he can fire out and quickly engage and drive the man in front of him. There are some technical things about his game that he could clean up, but overall, I really like Onwenu as a scheme-specific but starting-caliber guard in the NFL.
27. Isaiah Wilson, Georgia
Isaiah Wilson is really The Incredible Hulk playing tackle. He is huge with a 6-foot-6 and 350 lb body. He is fairly athletic for his size but has a tendency to over-lean, especially in pass protection.
He is good at using the defender’s momentum to his advantage, using his long, powerful limbs to guide defenders past the quarterback. Wilson often stands straight up and allows defenders to get their hands on him instead of the other way around and is highly susceptible to counters and inside moves.
He really needs to improve his footwork and technique as a pass blocker, no doubt. For as big and strong as he is I’d like to see Wilson be a bit more dominant in the run game. He shows flashes but too often he gets stood up or completely whiffs. He’s best when able to double team and down block to open up more outside runs.
Isaiah Wilson has the body, athletic traits and some promising football traits to have good potential at the next level. His size and power will certainly intrigue some teams, and he is rumored to be possibly off the board in the first round. That is far too rich for my blood given his inconsistencies and very low floor, but his ceiling may be worth the risk for a team early in the 2020 NFL Draft.
28. Ben Bartch, St. John’s (MIN)
Ben Bartch is a very raw left tackle prospect after switching from tight end following his freshman season. He obviously put on a good bit of weight after switching positions, but he still lacks NFL-caliber strength. But as a former tight end, he definitely moves well and is very athletic.
He is quick to get out of his stance and into his shuffle and is agile to stay in front of speed rushers. He is good at using the defender’s momentum against them when trying to take the edge, shoving them to the ground. But at times he is so quick to get out and guard the edge that he can open himself up to being beat on the inside.
St. John’s seemed to operate a pass-heavy offense, so there aren’t a ton of run blocking reps to watch of Bartch. But from what I saw, he seems to be decently effective as a run blocker. Obviously, with his athleticism, he would be a good mover and puller and can hold his own in straight run blocking duties.
Bartch is still very raw in my eyes but does show flashes of good potential. He isn’t quite as long as some other promising prospects but his athleticism is definitely an asset. If he can continue to fill out his frame and work out the kinks in his game, Bartch may be able to be a starting-caliber left tackle. It will be interesting to see how he fares against NFL talent on the edge, but unlike some evaluators, I don’t think he’s quite a plug-and-play option at this point.
29. Ben Bredeson, Michigan
Ben Bredeson is a very solid guard prospect who is average or above average across the board. He excels with quick bursts of power and moving downhill in the run game.
Pass protection is an area that he could improve, as both quicker inside rushers can get by him early in the play and powerful rushers can break loose from his block if the play is prolonged. But he is good out of stance and a very good run blocker, easily turning defenders to open holes. He has strong hands and arms and is able to drive with his lower body once he gets those hands on a defender. He is a serviceable mover at times, but that is certainly not a strength of his.
Bredeson should become a serviceable starter as an NFL guard, especially in a downhill, running attack offensive scheme. He has areas to improve and may not start right away, but he has the leadership and toughness that a team wants and should make the necessary adjustments to succeed at the next level.
30. Saahdiq Charles, LSU
Saahdiq Charles protected Joe Burrow’s blindside for most of LSU’s outstanding season in 2019. I say most because he missed six games this past season due to disciplinary actions, and he missed three games the season before due to injury. Those are definitely red flags that will need to be vetted before Charles is drafted.
Charles is currently a tackle, but I think his future may be at guard if he is going to thrive at the next level. In pass protection as a tackle, Charles is usually pretty effective, but he is much more of a catcher than an aggressor. He often gets beat quickly to the edge off the snap, sometimes slow to get out of his stance, and then panics a bit instead of trying to get back there and recover. He is generally smart and effective against counter moves and blitzers and got the job done in the SEC against some of the best competition in the nation.
He has strong hands and is very athletic (5.05 40), allowing him to be very effective as a run blocker. In the run game, he is very effective at engaging and turning defenders. At 6-foot-4, 321 lbs and with only 33-inch arms, Charles looks more like a guard to me, and that may be his best fit. But that is the case with many tackle prospects, and everyone can’t move to guard. Charles shows enough potential and has a sufficient level of production at tackle to warrant a shot there first, with a move to guard more as a fail-safe should tackle not pan out.
31. Scott Frantz, Kansas State
Scott Frantz is a very powerful left tackle who delivers quite the punch off the snap. Whether it is in the run game or as a pass blocker, Frantz excels when he is able to beat his opponent to the bunch and controls the point of attack.
As a run blocker, Frantz has good size and power and is very good at turning defenders to open run lanes. In pass protection, Frantz struggles the longer the play goes. He is great in the short term, but not nearly as effective against counter moves or sustained direct power straight through his body. If a defender is able to keep Frantz from getting his hands on them, they have a good chance at success.
Therefore, I see Frantz as an effective tackle (on either side) in a more run-heavy or quick-hitting passing attack. Prolonged play action roll outs and vertical passing games that take time to develop will not bode well for Frantz. But in the right situation, I think Frantz has the potential to be a starting tackle in the NFL.
32. Tyre Phillips, Mississippi State
After spending time at Last Chance U’s East Mississippi Community College, Tyre Phillips went to Mississippi State and eventually became the team’s starting left tackle in 2019. Phillips was a guard at EMCC and many view him as such at the next level, but he has tackle size at 6-foot-5, 331 lbs and over 35-inch arms.
He is still raw as a tackle, but I think the potential is there. He shows glimpses of very sound pass sets, mirroring rushers very impressively in his drop. He has very strong hands to hold defenders where they are but could improve his hand placement. He is wide with a strong base, making it difficult for any rushers to get by him, or especially through him. In the run game, Phillips uses those hands and his base well, standing up defenders and turning them to open up running lanes.
I’d like to see him be an even more effective drive blocker with his size and power, as he doesn’t offer much as a mover. Some want to move him back to guard, but I think he should get a chance at tackle. With some time to grow, learn and develop, I could see Tyre Phillips as a dominant right tackle in a gap running scheme.
33. Jon Runyan, Michigan
Jon Runyan, son of former Eagles great, has the makings to carve out a serious NFL career of his own. He played left tackle for the Wolverines, holding his own against some of the most talented pass rushers in the nation that resided in the Big Ten, despite less-than-optimal size and length for a tackle.
His future is at guard in the NFL, but his experience at tackle will benefit him greatly. His pass protection will be very useful as a guard. Even at tackle, Runyan was never the most fleet of foot in his drop and struggled to mirror speed rushers. Inside, Runyan will be able to use his experience to disrupt most interior rushers with ease.
He is very smart and has great instincts, and being inside at guard will help mask some of his physical limitations. As a run blocker, Runyan has a powerful lower body and is effective at turning and driving his opponents. His 5.08 40 and sub-8.00 second 3-cone drill show his promise as a short-space mover who could excel as a puller in a zone run scheme.
Runyan is rather scheme diverse and has the potential to start at multiple positions on the offensive line. He doesn’t have quite the ceiling that other prospects, but his floor is rather high and could be a viable starter early in his NFL career.
34. Tremayne Anchrum, Clemson
After playing right tackle throughout his Clemson career, Tremayne Anchrum will likely have to move to guard in the NFL due to his lack of desired tackle height and length.
Anchrum was very effective for Clemson, using his solid base to hold his ground in pass protection and move defenders in the run game. Despite his lack of length, Anchrum had good footwork and strong hands to keep even the best pass rushers at bay.
He stays with his blocks, riding defenders back well past the quarterback. He delivers a powerful pop when able to move downhill in the run game and turns defenders with relative ease.
Anchrum was very good at tackle for Clemson and can use a lot of what he learned with his move inside. He has the size, strength and athleticism to be a scheme diverse guard at the next level, with starting ability down the road once he is able to comfortably make the transition.
35. Calvin Throckmorton, Oregon
Calvin Throckmorton was a very versatile lineman at Oregon, and will likely play a similar part at the next level. Seeing time at four of the five offensive line spots, Throckmorton can fill in anywhere on the line.
Interestingly enough, the position he has the least experience is where I think he plays if he cracks the starting lineup as a pro. Playing primarily right tackle, a little at left tackle, two games at center and just one at right guard, Throckmorton is best suited as a man blocking guard at the next level.
He does not have the desired size or length to be a starting NFL tackle and has the power and toughness to succeed inside. He isn’t a great mover, so he is a bit scheme-specific, but is very effective as a run blocker and in pass protection. He has great strength and power throughout his body, from his legs to his core to his arms. He struggles against speed and quickness, particularly in pass pro, but displays sound technique despite his physical limitations.
Calvin Throckmorton has the strength and ability to become a starter in some capacity at the next level, but his physical limitations may render him to a versatile, sixth lineman role, using his diverse background to fill in wherever and whenever needed.
36. Trey Adams, Washington
Trey Adams is a very interesting tackle prospect. Once viewed as a potential top tackle in the draft a year or two ago, injuries have absolutely plagued his career aspirations. After a torn ACL and a bulging disk in his back, Adams is not the player he once was. Furthermore, Adams did himself no favors at the combine, running incredibly slow in the 40 and performing poorly in nearly all testing. Also giving an inappropriate and eye-popping answer to the media when he was asked what he would change about himself.
Adams did come back from his injuries to play every game in 2019, and still showed signs of his old self. Despite his poor testing, Adams still seemed to move fairly well in the open field. He has good looking pass sets, exhibiting solid form and technique. In the run game, he is effective when he can get downhill and be the aggressor. But where Adams really struggles following his injuries is against power. A simple bull rush easily puts Adams on his back, and he struggles against elite speed moves as well.
Through injuries and through some help of his own, Trey Adams has fallen greatly from where he was once viewed. And with everything going on preventing teams from getting desired medical feedback, Adams will be lucky if a team decides to give him a chance to prove that he can stay healthy, has his head on straight and is at least reminiscent of what he once was in college at the next level.
37. Shane Lemieux, Oregon
While others moved around to fill spots of need for the Ducks, Shane Lemieux has been a staple at left guard for the Oregon offensive line for four years, starting all 52 career games there.
Lemieux doesn’t always stay square to his defender, but that’s not always a bad thing. He loves to use the defender’s aggressiveness and momentum against them, throwing them to the ground or out of the play. However, Lemieux’s punch and recover mentality can get him in trouble at times, leaving lanes open for penetration, especially in pass protection.
As a run blocker, Lemieux is generally pretty effective with powerful hands and a strong upper body. He must improve his technique and his anchor as a pass protector if he wants to succeed on all three downs at the next level. Overall, Shane Lemieux is a dominant, scheme-diverse run blocker with some promise at the next level if he can correct some technical issues with his game.
Some of the players in this final tier of offensive lineman for the 2020 NFL Draft do have some promise and could contribute at some point in the future, but generally they do not excite me as prospects and shouldn’t be considered until the late rounds of the 2020 NFL Draft, if thye are drafted at all.
38. Yasir Durant, Missouri
Yasir Durant is a big and physical tackle prospect with heavy hands and heavy feet. Those two work against each other at times in pass protection against speed rushers, often not having the lateral agility to defend against inside and counter moves. But with a strong base to absorb power rushes and those strong hands,
Durant can control defenders in both pass protection and in the run game if he plays his cards right. He won’t be overly effective as a lateral mover, but is a force when rolling downhill in the run game. Durant has many things that he can improve on, but the potential is there to become at least a lower-level starting tackle in the NFL.
39. Gage Cervenka, Clemson
Gage Cervenka is a very raw offensive guard prospect who played defensive tackle until 2016. He is very strong and powerful and likely would have been towards the top of the charts in the bench press if he had been invited to the 2020 NFL Draft Scouting Combine.
He moves well but his powerful anchor and impactful blocking in the run game are where he really hangs his hat. As a pass blocker, a team will have to hope he will improve with time, as he struggles with technique and effectiveness against some simple moves.
He makes some eye-popping blocks here and there, exhibiting great potential that a team will likely take a chance on, but he will likely not be seeing an NFL field real early in his NFL career.
40. Darryl Williams, Mississippi State
With experience starting at both guard and center at Mississippi State, Darryl Williams’ floor is a versatile depth option at the next level. He’s a mostly unspectacular prospect with no one thing jumping out at me, but he is fairly solid across the board.
He is effective as a pass protector, using strong hands and a solid base to keep defenders at bay. He was not used much as a mover in the run game, and likely will not excel doing so at the next level. He isn’t an overly effective driver blocker, but he engages quickly and has the power and lean to turn opponents slightly to open running lanes.
After playing center in 2019, I think Williams will move back to guard if he wants a shot at starting in the NFL coming out of the 2020 NFL Draft. His snaps could be a little inconsistent at times and he has the ability to be a pass blocking, gap scheme guard at the next level, with valuable versatile experience that could come in handy as a depth option early in his career.
41. Charlie Heck, North Carolina
The son of an NFL offensive line coach, Charlie Heck is mostly a fundamentally sound tackle prospect. He has a good frame for an NFL tackle and good enough length to use to his advantage. Sometimes his height isn’t necessarily an advantage, occasionally standing up too straight and allowing defenders to get into his body.
Overall, Heck has good footwork and strong hands, using his length to keep defenders away in pass protection. He is an effective run blocker most of the time, but lacks the lower body drive to make really impactful blocks in the run game.
Heck is a mostly unspectacular prospect, but has good bloodlines and good direction at home. A team should admire his size and football IQ, making him a late-round pick in the 2020 NFL Draft and a viable swing-tackle option at the next level.
42. Jack Driscoll, Auburn
Jack Driscoll is an athletic right tackle who lacks optimal length for a tackle but lacks the strength to bounce inside. He is a very good mover (5.02 40) and is very effective as a puller and out in space on screens.
He is okay as a pass blocker with some ability to stay in front of speed rushers. But when it comes to stopping power rushers, he’s a bit helpless. He’s not technically sound enough to overcome his physical limitations leading to some wild inconsistencies.
That lack of strength would likely prevent him from being an effective guard, but if he can add that strength to his athleticism he could be a viable guard option with some tackle capability as part of the 2020 NFL Draft class.
43. Justin Herron, Wake Forest
Justin Herron isn’t a very flashy prospect, but he has been consistent across the board in his time at Wake Forest. He was a team captain in 2019 and has played both right and left tackle for the Demon Deacons.
He is a good run blocker with above-average athleticism. He has good drive and solid hands in the run game to stand his ground. In pass protection, Herron is sound for the most part. He can handle most bull rushes and has quick enough feet to guard against speed rushers.
Herron could improve in many areas, but he has a relatively high floor for a prospect in this range. I think he could be a very solid swing tackle/sixth lineman at the next level out of the 2020 NFL Draft, with the ability to hold his own at multiple positions, but not really having the upside to be an NFL starter.
44. Kyle Murphy, Rhode Island
Kyle Murphy was very versatile at Rhode Island, starting at guard, center and tackle at one point. After finding a home at left tackle, Murphy showed some promise with his length, power and athleticism.
In pass sets at left tackle, Murphy could use some refinement. His feet look okay, but he is often hit during his slide and loses all balance and control. He also would get too wide at times, leaving himself open for some easy inside moves.
On the bright side, Murphy showed the athleticism to recover quickly and ride the defender away from the quarterback. Despite his glimpses of athleticism, Murphy didn’t seem to be utilized all that often as a mover in the run game, mostly just coming in and placing down blocks to set the edge for more outside runs.
Murphy doesn’t seem to be much of a drive blocker in the run game, mostly just hand fighting and working to stalemate between him and the defender. He doesn’t quite have the size and technique to thrive as a tackle and doesn’t have the power or moving ability to make a big difference inside, leaving his fit a bit of a question.
With some time and a lot of development, I could see Murphy becoming a serviceable right tackle or a guard in a zone run scheme down the road. For now, his versatile background should be beneficial, providing a depth option in the 2020 NFL Draft who can play all five positions.
45. Colton McKivitz, West Virginia
Colton McKivitz is a manhandling tackle prospect who is more aggressive than refined, for sure. He definitely has a high level of nastiness about him. He is very strong and tough as nails, often beating his opponents with sheer will and might.
Now he’s not just a wild man out there. He has enough technique to get by, maybe even at the next level. His slide is very slow in pass protection and can look silly if he’s unable to engage his defender. He just looks a bit awkward when sliding his feet back in protection and is much better when he can just go and attack what’s in front of him.
In the run game, he is a decent mover, especially when it’s downhill as a lead blocker or getting to the second level. He doesn’t have a lot of natural drive with his lower body, but his repeated shoving and pushing with his upper body usually does the trick.
Colton McKivitz certainly could improve many things, technically, about his game to enhance his level of play. Given some physical limitations, I’m still not sure that makes him a starting tackle in the NFL, even on the right side where he is a better fit. At worst, he is a tenacious swing tackle/sixth lineman with the grit and toughness to fill in at any position across the board out of the 2020 NFL Draft.
46. Jake Hanson, Oregon
Jake Hanson has been the Oregon center his entire career and is a great mover. As a run blocker, he is effective as a mover, pulling, getting out in space and down the field. He turns his body well when engaging his block to open lanes for the ball carrier.
He’s not much of a drive blocker, excelling in space or on double teams and down blocks in the trenches. In pass protection, he uses his length to his advantage. Even against stronger power rushers, Hanson can use his strong hands and long arms to at least fend them off long enough. He has quick enough feet to stay in front of speed rushes, but does struggle at times to sustain his blocks against more powerful rushes for more than a second or two.
Jake Hanson isn’t a spectacular center prospect, but he is pretty solid across the board. He may not have the ceiling to be a bonafide starter in the NFL, but he could be a very serviceable replacement option at the next level out of the 2020 NFL Draft.
47. Sean Pollard, Clemson
With starting experience at tackle, guard and center at one of the most prestigious schools in the football world, I guess you can say Clemson lineman Sean Pollard has some valuable experience and versatility in the 2020 NFL Draft.
Pollard landed at center this past season for the Tigers. In the run game, he is very good at directing his defender and opening running lanes to one side or the other. He moves very well from his center position, often getting out into space to block on the screens that Clemson loves to run. Pollard is excellent when he can be the aggressor and move downhill, but doesn’t have the core strength or balance to withstand blows from powerful defensive linemen. He can get knocked back rather easily, using that 6-foot-5 frame against him if defenders are able to get into his body.
He has the frame of a tackle, but the same faults got to him there as well. Overall, Sean Pollard has some valuable traits that should lead to him getting a real shot to make an NFL roster. There are things that he must improve on, including some things that he may just not be able to physically, but his versatility may be very valuable as a depth option across the line at the next level.
48. Solomon Kindley, Georgia
Solomon Kindley is a tenacious guard who makes some eye-popping blocks in the run game, but is far too inconsistent at this point to be successful at the next level. Kindley plays with grit and nastiness. And that’s about it.
When playing against inferior competition, Kindley can look very impressive, but when things don’t line up in his favor he can easily be taken advantage of. He plays with far too much lean and eagerness, allowing technical defensive lineman to take advantage of him. He’s effective when able to go right at a stable target and has impressive drive with his hands engaged, but getting to that point is the problem.
As a pass blocker, Kindley isn’t a good catcher with blitzes and powerful rushes easily knocking him back. And with heavy feet he doesn’t have the lateral agility to stay in front of quicker rushers.
Kindley is a project that has some potential with his size and physicality but will need quite some time to develop the fundamentals needed to play in the NFL. But given his size and pedigree, Kindley will likely be selected fairly early in the 2020 NFL Draft.
49. Keith Ismael, San Diego State
Starting at both guard positions as well as center for the Aztecs, Keith Ismael has desired versatility for someone who will likely start their professional career as a reserve out of the 2020 NFL Draft.
Playing center in 2019, Ismael proved to be very instinctual in pass protection. He was good at recognizing and picking up blitzes and stunts and exhibited sound footwork as a pass blocker.
In the run game, Ismael is better suited as more of a mover than a people mover in a zone run scheme. He has enough power to make some impactful blocks and enough anchor to hold his own against stronger defensive lineman in pass protection, but is more scrappy than powerful.
Ismael could have a future at either center or guard in the NFL if he continues to improve, and his experience at all three positions may give him a leg up on the competition in terms of making a roster as a rookie.
50. Zach Shackelford, Texas
As the starting center for the Texas Longhorns, Zack Shackelford exhibits some desirable traits to build on despite his lack of play strength. Shackelford showed that he is an effective mover who can get out in space.
He has strong hands and decent length that he can use to his advantage in pass protection before defenders get into his body and exploit his lack of functional weight and core strength and 6-foot-4 and just over 300 lbs. He uses those hands and his length well in the run game as well, engaging quickly and grabbing the upper hand on his opponent. Once engaged he shows some powerful legs, driving defenders back.
Overall, Shackelford has some qualities to build on that might get him a shot at a roster, but his ceiling doesn’t appear to be all too high, most likely a career back-up option in the NFL, likely as an udrafted free agent out of the 2020 NFL Draft class.