Req's Offensive Tackle Thoughts.

[Requiem]

With Denver likely to pick in the top fifteen, that means two selections in the top fifty which is absolutely golden for this franchise. We should be able to get top players at either side (L or R) at those picks. Here are some notes from my prospect notebook I've been keeping over the year. As I've mentioned, OT is the position I have been watching the most. At least three games for each of them with detailed information. Williams, Otah and Greco I haven't seen that much, but I gave some thoughts.

Hope you guys enjoy it. . . I'd love any of these dudes!

SENIORS (TOP FIVE, INCLUDING SLEEPER PICK)

Jake Long - Versatile player that could play either spot in the NFL. . . Battle tested against top competition and has been consistent for most of his career. . . Good technique. . . Victim of nagging injuries. . . [Top Five]

Sam Baker - Polished lineman who has started for three years straight at LT for the Trojans, a perfect fit for the Broncos ZBS. . . In my opinion, a better pass protector than a run blocker. . . Seems to always be hampered with some sort of an injury, but has toughness and plays through them. . . Was mentioned that Denver was interested in him. . . [Top Twenty Five]

Jeff Otah - Honestly haven't seen him play other than a few switches of the channel, just seems everyone his high on him because of his size and athleticism, seems to have a lot of potential from what I've read. A likely top fifteen to top ten selection. [Top Fifteen]

Gosder Cherilus - Inconsistent performer for the Golden Eagles, but has the potential to be a very good RIGHT TACKLE in the NFL as he is struggling at LEFT TACKLE. . . Has great size and can be a force in the running game. . . Seems to bend at the waist more than the knees. . . Struggles against speed rushers off the edge. . . [Late Round One, Early Round Two]

Christopher Williams - Versatile prospect who would go a lot higher if it wasn't such a tremendous class at offensive tackle. . . Battle-tested against great competition. . . Used to block for Jay Cutler. . . Great in pass protection. . . above-average run blocker. . . Knee-bender. . . [Early Round Two, Middle Round Two]

John Greco - (Based off Ball State game) Plays nasty. . . Protects the QB well. . . A force in the running game, runs to his side go for very good yardage. . . Competition level might hurt him. . . Will not have a Joe Staley rise up the boards. . . [Early Day Two Selection, Top 100 Pick]

JUNIORS (TOP GUYS)

Ryan Clady - NFL ready prospect now. . . Experienced at RT as a redshirt freshman and has been at LT ever since 2006. . . Not as polished as some other tackles, but will be a strong anchor at either spot in the NFL. . . Only average discipline, gets flagged for too many false starts. . . Prototype player for the Broncos ZBS. . . Likely to come out, easily a top fifteen selection. . . [Top Fifteen]

Phil Loadholt - Gigantic, would possibly be the largest offensive tackle to be in the NFL as soon as he enters the NFL. . . Hate Oklahoma, but this kid is a difference maker. . . Nobody ever touches the QB. . . he's a reason for that. . . Plays mean and reminds me of Bryant McKinnie (not just size wise) could anchor either spot on the offensive line. . . Only one year of DI experience. . . Raw, but with enormous upside. . . Has everything you can't teach. . . [Top Five]

Michael Oher - Has versatility. . . Has played right guard and has played the last two seasons at left tackle. . . Enormous upside. . . Is a very good prospect who would be a top ten selection next year if he came out. . . A balanced tackle who can protect the quarterback and plow in the running game. . . If he came out this year, I'd say he'd be a middle first-round prospect. . . Still a little raw. . . [Top Twenty Five]

[socalorado]

Jeff Otah, Pittsburgh (12/1)
Height: 6-6. Weight: 340.
40 Time: 5.24.
Projected Round: 1-2.
Started every game for Pittsburgh in 2006, protecting Tyler Palko. Not a bad 40 considering his 340-pound frame.

Drew Radovich, USC
Height: 6-5. Weight: 305.
40 Time: 5.09.
Projected Round: 3.
Started every game for USC at left guard.

Shannon Tevaga, UCLA
Height: 6-3. Weight: 316.
40 Time: 5.28.
Projected Round: 3-4.
Shannon Tevaga is one of the most dependable linemen in this draft; he has started 31 consecutive games.

Gosder Cherilus, Boston College
Height: 6-7. Weight: 318.
40 Time: 5.08.
Projected Round: Top 25 Pick.
Rarely injured, Gosder Cherilus could be the third offensive tackle chosen in the top 15.

**And one of many here favorites**

Michael Oher*, Ole Miss
Height: 6-5. Weight: 325.
40 Time: 5.21.
Projected Round: Top 25 Pick.
Reminds me of a slightly better version of Justin Blalock; like the former Longhorn, can play guard and tackle.

Barry Richardson, Clemson
Height: 6-7. Weight: 320.
40 Time: 5.48.
Projected Round: 1-2.
A monstrous offensive tackle who has started 32 consecutive games

Chris Williams, Vanderbilt
Height: 6-6. Weight: 315.
40 Time: 5.13.
Projected Round: 1-2.
Co-captain of Vanderbilt's football team, Chris Williams simply doesn't allow sacks. His 40 at his size is remarkable.

Mike McGlynn, Pittsburgh
Height: 6-5. Weight: 315.
40 Time: 5.28.
Projected Round: 2-3.
Extremely durable. Can play both offensive tackle and guard positions


Please, lets get some durable guys.

[SpringStein]

I'm doubtful that Oher or Loadholt come out - but if one of them do, this could be the year of the OT matching up to the '83 year of the QB.

[NFLBRONCO]

If that is true OT should be #1 or #2 target in draft.

[Requiem]

I'm doubtful that Oher or Loadholt come out - but if one of them do, this could be the year of the OT matching up to the '83 year of the QB.

Yes, I thought I'd include them into my analysis since they're the top players (among) at the junior tackle class. I'd say Loadholt would be more likely to come out than Oher. . . but yeah, I feel it's doubtful.

[Billy Clyde Puckett]

From what I am reading, I saw Cherilus much differently than everyone else. To me he appeared to be a better pass blocker than a run blocker. When I watched him run block, he almost looked like he was using upright, pass blocking technique rather than driving the defender down field.

[Requiem]

From what I am reading, I saw Cherilus much differently than everyone else. To me he appeared to be a better pass blocker than a run blocker. When I watched him run block, he almost looked like he was using upright, pass blocking technique rather than driving the defender down field.

Maybe it's on a game by game basis though? It's probably different every week, but I watched him since last year and he is out of position at left tackle, he'll be a more natural right tackle - and I think that's partly due in part to his better run blocking skills. Where there were no sacks in the Florida State game, he was getting pushed around constantly from what I remember.

[lex]

With Denver likely to pick in the top fifteen, that means two selections in the top fifty which is absolutely golden for this franchise. We should be able to get top players at either side (L or R) at those picks. Here are some notes from my prospect notebook I've been keeping over the year. As I've mentioned, OT is the position I have been watching the most. At least three games for each of them with detailed information. Williams, Otah and Greco I haven't seen that much, but I gave some thoughts.

Hope you guys enjoy it. . . I'd love any of these dudes!

SENIORS (TOP FIVE, INCLUDING SLEEPER PICK)

Jake Long - Versatile player that could play either spot in the NFL. . . Battle tested against top competition and has been consistent for most of his career. . . Good technique. . . Victim of nagging injuries. . . [Top Five]

Sam Baker - Polished lineman who has started for three years straight at LT for the Trojans, a perfect fit for the Broncos ZBS. . . In my opinion, a better pass protector than a run blocker. . . Seems to always be hampered with some sort of an injury, but has toughness and plays through them. . . Was mentioned that Denver was interested in him. . . [Top Twenty Five]

Jeff Otah - Honestly haven't seen him play other than a few switches of the channel, just seems everyone his high on him because of his size and athleticism, seems to have a lot of potential from what I've read. A likely top fifteen to top ten selection. [Top Fifteen]

Gosder Cherilus - Inconsistent performer for the Golden Eagles, but has the potential to be a very good RIGHT TACKLE in the NFL as he is struggling at LEFT TACKLE. . . Has great size and can be a force in the running game. . . Seems to bend at the waist more than the knees. . . Struggles against speed rushers off the edge. . . [Late Round One, Early Round Two]

Christopher Williams - Versatile prospect who would go a lot higher if it wasn't such a tremendous class at offensive tackle. . . Battle-tested against great competition. . . Used to block for Jay Cutler. . . Great in pass protection. . . above-average run blocker. . . Knee-bender. . . [Early Round Two, Middle Round Two]

John Greco - (Based off Ball State game) Plays nasty. . . Protects the QB well. . . A force in the running game, runs to his side go for very good yardage. . . Competition level might hurt him. . . Will not have a Joe Staley rise up the boards. . . [Early Day Two Selection, Top 100 Pick]

JUNIORS (TOP GUYS)

Ryan Clady - NFL ready prospect now. . . Experienced at RT as a redshirt freshman and has been at LT ever since 2006. . . Not as polished as some other tackles, but will be a strong anchor at either spot in the NFL. . . Only average discipline, gets flagged for too many false starts. . . Prototype player for the Broncos ZBS. . . Likely to come out, easily a top fifteen selection. . . [Top Fifteen]

Phil Loadholt - Gigantic, would possibly be the largest offensive tackle to be in the NFL as soon as he enters the NFL. . . Hate Oklahoma, but this kid is a difference maker. . . Nobody ever touches the QB. . . he's a reason for that. . . Plays mean and reminds me of Bryant McKinnie (not just size wise) could anchor either spot on the offensive line. . . Only one year of DI experience. . . Raw, but with enormous upside. . . Has everything you can't teach. . . [Top Five]

Michael Oher - Has versatility. . . Has played right guard and has played the last two seasons at left tackle. . . Enormous upside. . . Is a very good prospect who would be a top ten selection next year if he came out. . . A balanced tackle who can protect the quarterback and plow in the running game. . . If he came out this year, I'd say he'd be a middle first-round prospect. . . Still a little raw. . . [Top Twenty Five]

Was dominant vs. Chris Long and George Selvie.

[Elway777]

Jeff Otah, Pittsburgh (12/1)
Height: 6-6. Weight: 340.
40 Time: 5.24.
Projected Round: 1-2.
Started every game for Pittsburgh in 2006, protecting Tyler Palko. Not a bad 40 considering his 340-pound frame.

Drew Radovich, USC
Height: 6-5. Weight: 305.
40 Time: 5.09.
Projected Round: 3.
Started every game for USC at left guard.

Shannon Tevaga, UCLA
Height: 6-3. Weight: 316.
40 Time: 5.28.
Projected Round: 3-4.
Shannon Tevaga is one of the most dependable linemen in this draft; he has started 31 consecutive games.

Gosder Cherilus, Boston College
Height: 6-7. Weight: 318.
40 Time: 5.08.
Projected Round: Top 25 Pick.
Rarely injured, Gosder Cherilus could be the third offensive tackle chosen in the top 15.

**And one of many here favorites**

Michael Oher*, Ole Miss
Height: 6-5. Weight: 325.
40 Time: 5.21.
Projected Round: Top 25 Pick.
Reminds me of a slightly better version of Justin Blalock; like the former Longhorn, can play guard and tackle.

Barry Richardson, Clemson
Height: 6-7. Weight: 320.
40 Time: 5.48.
Projected Round: 1-2.
A monstrous offensive tackle who has started 32 consecutive games

Chris Williams, Vanderbilt
Height: 6-6. Weight: 315.
40 Time: 5.13.
Projected Round: 1-2.
Co-captain of Vanderbilt's football team, Chris Williams simply doesn't allow sacks. His 40 at his size is remarkable.

Mike McGlynn, Pittsburgh
Height: 6-5. Weight: 315.
40 Time: 5.28.
Projected Round: 2-3.
Extremely durable. Can play both offensive tackle and guard positions


Please, lets get some durable guys. Great break down of tackles. I think Long best fits the Broncos scheme and would trade our 2008 and 2009 first rounder for him. If the Broncos stay put then Clady would also be a nice pick. If the Bronco want too second round then Chis williams would be a good pick. If they wait too second day then Greco and Duanne Brown would be good picks.

[rugbythug]

Was dominant vs. Chris Long and George Selvie.

who?

[lex]

who?

I had bolded Jeff Otah. Is that what youre asking?

[DivineLegion]

Barry Richardson, Clemson
Height: 6-7. Weight: 320.
40 Time: 5.48.
Projected Round: 1-2.
A monstrous offensive tackle who has started 32 consecutive games

He graduated both college and High school in three years. Hes a smart kid and has a good head on his shoulders. You dont find many people in South Carolina who are smart like this kid. He also runs a quicker 40 around 5.2

Hes woring realy hard right now to get in even better shape for the combine and it seems quickness is one of the things hes trying to work realy hard on. A guy thats 6-7 320 getting quicker is a scary thing but great if your the team looking to pick him up. First team all ACC, he could be a poor mans Jake Long if Jake is out of reach.

[Requiem]

Richardson's situation reminds me of McNeill's a few years ago, but his was due to back injuries.

[phibacka31]

Hey Req i was just wondering about your comment about Baker. Where had you read that the broncos were interested? I'm very excited if they are, because we need to address the OLINE front. Thanks!

[Requiem]

Hey Req i was just wondering about your comment about Baker. Where had you read that the broncos were interested? I'm very excited if they are, because we need to address the OLINE front. Thanks!

From the same guys I try to talk to as much as I can who gave me the goods over the past two drafts, in particular the 2006 draft. Maybe it's just a rumor, but I tend to trust some of these people because they have either worked with teams, or are able to find out such information. At any case, is it that hard to believe? We have three tackles on our roster, Pears is an FA (not sure which type) Lepsis continues to grow older and their play has been porous this year. Not to mention, having Ryan Harris - who hasn't been able to supplant either of them. . . and had that back surgery - some seem to think (on here) that it could be a re-occurring problem.

The injuries, lack of depth and poor play - coupled with the fact that this is a fantastic class at OT would lead anyone to believe the Broncos are interested.

I just like to pass off any information that I hear about. Who knows if it's gospel, but I've been fairly consistent over the two years in pegging interests on the team, and coming up with the right players accordingly. Not just lucky guesses, with it all I've gotten some help. If you remember I had avatar's of Harrell, Timmons and Moss all at some point during last off-season (between the Mane and Broncomania) maybe it was a sheer coincidence that the Broncos just happened to target all of them in round one. . . maybe not. . . ;)

[mattob14]

The nice thing about picking Baker would be that we could trade back to do it. He'd be available in that 20-25 range and we could add an extra 2nd.

[iforgotmypassword]

I like Heath Benidict out of Newberry ALOT.... a div II player but an animal, probaly have to do some researchin to find alot about him on the net.

3rd round type player, could be a steal. Run's a sub 5 secound 40, so could be useful in our scheme.

[eddie mac]

From the same guys I try to talk to as much as I can who gave me the goods over the past two drafts, in particular the 2006 draft. Maybe it's just a rumor, but I tend to trust some of these people because they have either worked with teams, or are able to find out such information. At any case, is it that hard to believe? We have three tackles on our roster, Pears is an FA (not sure which type) Lepsis continues to grow older and their play has been porous this year. Not to mention, having Ryan Harris - who hasn't been able to supplant either of them. . . and had that back surgery - some seem to think (on here) that it could be a re-occurring problem.

The injuries, lack of depth and poor play - coupled with the fact that this is a fantastic class at OT would lead anyone to believe the Broncos are interested.

I just like to pass off any information that I hear about. Who knows if it's gospel, but I've been fairly consistent over the two years in pegging interests on the team, and coming up with the right players accordingly. Not just lucky guesses, with it all I've gotten some help. If you remember I had avatar's of Harrell, Timmons and Moss all at some point during last off-season (between the Mane and Broncomania) maybe it was a sheer coincidence that the Broncos just happened to target all of them in round one. . . maybe not. . . ;)

Pears is an ERFA Req and will come back very cheap. We're talking probably $400k for a 1 year deal.

[Billy Clyde Puckett]

Maybe it's on a game by game basis though? It's probably different every week, but I watched him since last year and he is out of position at left tackle, he'll be a more natural right tackle - and I think that's partly due in part to his better run blocking skills. Where there were no sacks in the Florida State game, he was getting pushed around constantly from what I remember.

I don't know Req - I watched him closely the entire game again last night. He seems to just stand upright, give the defensive lineman a shove with his hands and stand there waiting for someone to come at him again. Looks like a wrestler from the WWF to me.

[MechanicalBull]

Sam Baker - Polished lineman who has started for three years straight at LT for the Trojans, a perfect fit for the Broncos ZBS. . . In my opinion, a better pass protector than a run blocker. . . Seems to always be hampered with some sort of an injury, but has toughness and plays through them. . . Was mentioned that Denver was interested in him. . . [Top Twenty Five]


That means Denver won't draft him.