2021 NFL Draft rankings: Penei Sewell leads strong offensive tackle group

11. Alex Leatherwood, Alabama
6-foot-6, 312 pounds
2021 NFL Draft grade: Third round

One of the most dominant offensive linemen over the past few years in the SEC has been Alabama’s, Alex Leatherwood. Leatherwood’s career started with him seeing action in seven games as a true freshman at Alabama. He then played offensive guard in 2018, where he earned a spot on the All-SEC second team. That was followed up with him moving to left tackle for his final two seasons at Alabama where he was named All-SEC in 2019 and 2020.

The skill that has made Leatherwood so successful is his impressive strength. He shows the ability to drive his defender off the ball in the run game. He also will rarely get beat by a bull rush in pass protection and does a great job of standing his ground in this area. He also has a good frame coming in at 6-foot-6 and 312 pounds.

While Leatherwood has been dominant at the college level, NFL teams may worry some about how his potential translates to the NFL. This is mainly due to his average athletic ability and questionable balance. He really struggles when working in space and will have a very hard time when facing quick pass rushers like Bud Dupree in the NFL. His lack of mobility might also hurt him when it comes to playing guard, as this may not be the type of athlete you want pulling.

I currently grade Leatherwood as a third-round prospect. I think his best chance of starting in the NFL might be right tackle, where his size and strength can best be utilized.