2021 NFL Draft rankings: Penei Sewell leads strong offensive tackle group
By John Blair
9. Jalen Mayfield, Michigan
6-foot-5 320 pounds
2021 NFL Draft grade: Second round
A player who seems to be getting a lot of hype based on potential is Michigan’s, Jalen Mayfield. Despite only starting 15 games in his career and only being an honorable mention Big Ten choice, a lot of mock drafts are projecting him as a first-round draft pick.
On the positive side, Mayfield does show impressive strength. He is very rarely overpowered and should have very little trouble with power pass rushers in the NFL. He also has the mean streak you want to see in an offensive tackle.
The biggest concern with Mayfield is his athletic ability. He is not the most agile player in the draft, and will likely have trouble with speed rushers in the NFL. His lack of mobility also hurts him at times as a run blocker, as he has trouble blocking linebackers at times. One more concern with him is that he never was overly highly regarded in the Big Ten as he never made first or second-team all-conference.
While I am lower than most people on Mayfield I do think he can earn a starting role in the NFL. However, it may be with him switching to offensive guard where his lack of mobility and impressive strength are a better combination.