2022 NFL Draft Notebook: 2021 NFL MVP Rams QB Matthew Stafford?
By John Blair
- Blaise Andries of Minnesota is one of the larger linemen in the 2022 NFL Draft coming in at 6-foot-6 and 335 pounds. While this size works in his favor when it comes to overpowering opponents it might also force him to shift to offensive guard. This is due to him lacking the flexibility you want to see from your tackles and shows only average quickness. An NFL team that could be an ideal fit for him is the Miami Dolphins who love to draft massive offensive linemen.
- Alabama offensive tackle Evan Neal has made an impact from day one at Alabama, starting 13 games as a true freshman. This past season Neal made the move from offensive guard to right tackle where he again had a strong season. Looking at how Neal transitions to the NFL he has the size, strength, and feet to be a first-round pick. One concern with him that could see him slip in the 2022 NFL Draft is his body control as he tends to get off balance.
- Aaron Johnson might be the first player to be drafted from South Dakota State since Jordan Brown went to the Cincinnati Bengals in the seventh round of the 2019 NFL Draft. Johnson shows impressive strength and is a strong run blocker overall. Unfortunately, he doesn’t have the quickest feet which could force him to play right tackle or shift inside to guard in the NFL.
- While a lot of NFL Draft sites have Ohio State offensive tackle Thayer Munford graded as the top offensive tackle in the 2022 NFL Draft, it is unlikely he will go that high if he doesn’t improve his technique. The biggest issue with him is his slow punch which allows defenders to get into his body and overpower him. He also has some footwork concerns including stopping his feet on contact at times.
- A player who is still learning the offensive line position but already shows intriguing pro potential is BYU offensive tackle Blake Freeland. Freeland, who played quarterback in high school, has only played on the offensive line for two years yet has already started 18 games. As a pro prospect, he displays the athletic ability and quick feet to play left tackle. One thing he needs to work on though is getting stronger as defenders can push him around at times.