Ranking the top 10 offensive tackles in the 2021 NFL Draft class
2. Christian Darrisaw, Virginia Tech
The decision on these next two players is tough. I see Christian Darrisaw and Rashawn Slater as the next tier of offensive tackles in the 2021 NFL Draft class, with neither player being a threat to Sewell at the top, but a step above the other players at the position. This one is close, but I do give Darrisaw the slight edge here.
Darrisaw has taken his game to the next level this season and has quickly become one of the best offensive linemen in the nation. He has great length at the position and knows how to use it to his advantage as a pass protector. Darrisaw is also a strong athlete who moves well in space and shows impressive natural power at the point of attack.
Simply put, he is a high-level pass protector who has also shown impact ability in the run game. Darrisaw has the talent needed to come in and be an immediate starter at the left tackle position at the next level. He will likely come off of the board in the top half of the first round in the 2021 NFL Draft.
3. Rashawn Slater, Northwestern
Rashawn Slater is a quick, powerful and aggressive offensive lineman who absolutely overwhelms opposing defenders as a run blocker. He shows an explosive first step, great lateral agility and maintains his balance well throughout the play. Slater also displays a strong initial punch and impressive grip strength at all times.
He also moves his feet well in pass protection and particularly impressive when he is allowed to attack. Slater is not the most patient offensive lineman and that will get him in trouble at times, but when he can be aggressive, nobody can stop this man.
Slater does lack ideal arm length for an offensive tackle at the next level, but the rest of his skill-set shines through enough where he should not have any troubles handling the position. At worst, he would fit well as a candidate to move inside to guard.
The question for most teams when it comes to Slater will be whether they want to draft him as a good offensive tackle or move him inside where he can be an elite offensive guard. Either way, he should be taken at some point in the top half of the first round.