This year, the 2018 NFL draft is fairly weak on offensive tackle prospects. Isaiah Wynn, a Sherman-tank offensive lineman from Georgia, may change that.
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If you could pick one word to describe Georgia’s Isaiah Wynn, the word would be “versatile”. He is a plug-and-play offensive lineman that can do just about anything on the offensive line. At Georgia, three-year starter Wynn played both tackle and guard, but he will most likely be recruited for the guard position as he is a bit short at 6-foot-2 for the typical NFL tackle.
According to those in the know, Wynn was the best player at the Senior Bowl. His outstanding play is even more impressive because the Senior Bowl is brutal for offensive linemen due to the fact they have no fellow blockers to help them out.
Strengths
Wynn was a second-team All-American who helped Georgia rush for 258 yards per game, which was first in the SEC. He had a fantastic week at the Senior Bowl, and proved that he can handle a variety of schemes, including zone blocking, gap, and power offenses. He drives back defenders with an enviable ease. He excels at pass protection and is a very athletic guard, which means that despite his size — 6-foot-2 and 300 pounds –he is speedy and moves intelligently. He reads defenses well, so he can instinctively make blocks without having to be led. Despite his smaller stature, Wynn’s history in the tackle position ensures that he will be a great spot starter.
Weaknesses
If Wynn wants to play tackle in the big leagues, his height will most likely be an issue. He will probably get projected for a guard position. Some analysts were concerned about his capability in transitioning back to the inside. Wynn silenced those detractors after playing well at both left and right guard positions during the Senior Bowl. He has a few technical issues, but he’s young and with good coaching, all of that can be worked out.
*Checks* Yep, Isaiah Wynn is still a good player. Mugs No. 41 here. Playing with a proper base allows him to generate force while remaining balanced, giving him the ability to strain and drive the defender back. pic.twitter.com/7dkLMyEr2u
— John Owning (@JohnOwning) February 24, 2018
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Draft expectations
Initially, Wynn was touted as a second or third-round draft pick, but that was before his awesome showing at the Senior Bowl. Now pundits have him as the No. 5 tackle. He’s a bullet-train as a run blocker and a brick-wall pass protector, so he could solidify any offensive line at either right or left side. His draft stock is up right now, so expect Wynn to get picked early.
Projection: Mid to late first round