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Ranking the top 10 offensive tackles in the 2021 NFL Draft class

By Dan Schmelzer

The Miami Dolphins select Christian Darrisaw in the first round of this 2021 NFL mock draft (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images)
The Miami Dolphins select Christian Darrisaw in the first round of this 2021 NFL mock draft (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images) /
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Samuel Cosmi, 2021 NFL Draft
2021 NFL Draft prospect Samuel Cosmi #52 of the Texas Longhorns (Photo by Scott Wachter-USA TODAY Sports) /

4. Samuel Cosmi, Texas

We talked earlier about how important it is for teams to have impact players who can help them in the passing game. Samuel Cosmi stands out as a premier offensive tackle prospect in pass protection and should be able to protect the blindside of his quarterback well for many years.

Cosmi is undoubtedly a bit of a raw player, but his athletic upside up front is incredibly impressive. He is quick off of the ball and smooth in space. He mirrors opposing edge rushers extremely well and has the quickness needed to recover if needed. Cosmi’s value will primarily come as a pass protector, but he can hold his own as a run blocker as well. He does a great job of taking proper angles and holds up well against powerful players on the inside.

While Cosmi has exciting athletic upside, he also has a slight frame, which is obviously a concern for an offensive lineman. He also displays sloppy footwork and hand usage at times, which can be taken advantage of in a big way at the next level. Cosmi is undoubtedly a bit of a project player, but his upside a the next level is too exciting to ignore. Based on that potential, Cosmi is extremely likely to be a first-round selection in the 2021 NFL Draft.

5. Jalen Mayfield, Michigan

Jalen Mayfield is a gifted offensive tackle prospect who has primarily played right tackle at Michigan but has some experience on the left side as well. He shows an impressive combination of length, mobility and power that makes him an impact run blocker and pass protector.

Mayfield shows impressive power at the point of attack and anchors in against power on the edge extremely well. He has shown some issues against elite speed rushers but can take care of his responsibilities in pass protection a majority of the time. Simply put, Mayfield is a rock-solid offensive tackle prospect who will be an important piece up front for a team for many years. He is a fringe first-round prospect who could end up being a major value early on Day 2.

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