NFL Draft 2020: Why Jedrick Wills Jr. is next Joe Thomas for Browns

Jedrick Wills Jr. goes to Cleveland with the 10th pick in the draft. The Alabama star will be the next Joe Thomas-type player at tackle for the Browns.

The Alabama Crimson Tide sees yet another offensive lineman go to the NFL in the Nick Saban era. He is the seventh offensive lineman taken since Saban’s been in Tuscaloosa. No team has had more linemen drafted in the first round.

Wills is the best pure tackle in this draft. He might not be the pure size of a Mekhi Becton, but there is not a tackle as polished as Wills in this draft. This is not a draft rich in elite tackles; Becton is the best of the group.

What you like about Wills is his balance. He transfers his power from his lower body and blows defenders off of the ball. He has excellent bend in his hips and knees. You rarely see Wills lunge after defenders. He has great get off on the snap and engages defenders in the run game.

He is undoubtedly the best pass protector in this draft. His feet are wonderful. When he gets his hands on a pass rusher, it is game over. He can direct them where he wants to go. He uses his hands very well keeping them on the breast of defenders.

Grade: A-

He might not have the prototypical height and length you usually see in tackles, but he is so polished in his lower body that pass rushers have a difficult time getting any rhythm against him in the passing game. He is so wide and has such quick hands, he more than makes up for not being 6-6 or taller.