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

6. James Hudson, Cincinnati
6-foot-4, 302 pounds
2021 NFL Draft grade: Second round

James Hudson has seen limited playing time during his college career as he has only started for one year. Hudson came to Michigan as a four-star recruit but only played in two games over his two seasons in Ann Arbor, and didn’t start a single game. He then decided to transfer to Cincinnati in 2019 but was forced to sit out the year because of the transfer. He finally became a starter in 2020 and was named to the All-AAC first team.

Despite seeing such limited playing time Hudson has impressed scouts enough to earn a trip to the Senior Bowl, where he continued to impress. One of the skills that have shined through this year is his quick feet as he slides well in pass protection, and also does a very good job of blocking in space. He is also an aggressive blocker who loves to dominate his opponent.

The biggest concerns on Hudson come with his lack of playing time. This lack of time in the starting lineup has made him more of a developmental prospect as he needs to refine his technique. He will lunge from time and time, and also need to work on using his hands better in pass protection. Another concern with him is he lacks ideal length coming in at only 6-foot-4.

Even though Hudson may need some time to develop, his major upside at the offensive tackle position is worth making a second-round investment.