Arm length is a prominent measurable for offensive linemen because it provides a glimpse of “reach” in pass protection. While arm length is not necessarily indicative of NFL success, it is a concern for teams as they attempt to project linemen to tackle or guard in the pros.
Riley Reiff of Iowa is widely viewed as the second best left tackle prospect in the 2012 draft. But he measured in at the Combine with 33 1/4-inch arms, which is considered short for an NFL left tackle.
Some left tackles have overcome short arms, most notably Joe Thomas of the Browns. In terms of teams’ college-to-pro projections, however, Reiff may now be listed on some boards as a right tackle only, or even a guard.
Reiff is 6-foot-5 3/4 and 313 pounds. He started 37 career games at Iowa. 29 came at left tackle, seven at left guard, and one at right tackle.