2017 NFL draft positional breakdown: Offensive line

Share

We kick off our positional breakdown leading up to the 2017 NFL draft with a look at offensive linemen. Instead of a top five, we'll highlight players at these positions who fit the Eagles and have a chance to be available when the team picks. 

At No. 14

Garett Bolles, Utah, 6-5, 297 pounds
No, the Eagles aren't likely to take an offensive tackle with their first pick. There will be better players at greater areas of need, especially in this pretty weak class for offensive linemen. But it wouldn't be shocking to see the Eagles pick up an offensive tackle along the way. Bolles is considered one of the best in this class and he didn't do anything to hurt that at the combine. He seems to have overcome his personal problems as a teenager and will be a first-round pick. It's just a matter of where. 

In the middle 

Antonio Garcia, Troy, 6-6, 302
There are questions about the way he'll be able to play at 300 pounds, but the athletic tackle is intriguing. He's not a finished product but his potential should be enough for him to be a third-rounder. He will probably be more comfortable in pass protection than run blocking to start. He's the kind of guy Eagles offensive line coach Jeff Stoutland would love to get his hands on. 

Julie'n Davenport, Bucknell, 6-7, 318
Bucknell isn't a football powerhouse, but the Eagles should be aware of Davenport, who played high school football at Paulsboro in South Jersey. The former basketball player looks like it on the field at tackle; his footwork is great. He's big but moves incredibly well for someone of his size and could be available in a middle round. 

Zach Banner, 6-8, 353
The positive on Banner is he's enormous. The negative on Banner is he's enormous. With concerns about his weight, will he be nimble enough to play at the next level? Some view him as a guard and some as a tackle. 

Late-round sleeper(s)

Michael Dunn, Maryland, 6-5, 300
The Maryland rushing offense had a big season in 2016 and Dunn was a big reason why. He started 10 games at left tackle and was a force up front. He suffered a shoulder injury and wasn't invited to the combine. He's a likely seventh-rounder or undrafted free agent. 

Contact Us