With the 2018 NFL draft a few days away, here are some of the top offensive line prospects.
1. Quenton Nelson, Notre Dame
Quenton Nelson is considered by many experts not only the best offensive lineman in the draft, but the safest and best player in the draft. He plays at the offensive guard position. There are no doubts around the NFL about Nelson. He is a very strong and powerful blocker. Also, he is excellent at both pass and run blocking which is hard to find. In 2017 he was an All-American at Notre Dame. Nelson is going to produce at an elevated level for many years to come. The team that drafts him will be able to start him from day 1.
2. Mike McGlinchey, Notre Dame
Mike McGlinchey was the left tackle at Notre Dame for the past couple seasons. McGlinchey played right next to Nelson, which made them a force on the line. He is an exceptional pass blocker which is most important blocking for the blind side of a quarterback. He is another player who will be able to contribute immediately and start the first game. Also, he was a two-year captain for Notre Dame, and has great character. He is a player that can be a force in the league for many years.
3. Will Hernandez, University of Texas at El Paso
Will Hernandez was a guard during his career at UTEP. He has terrific size, and natural power. He is a more profound blocker in the run game and will need some work when it comes to pass blocking. He has all the tools to be a starter for years to come. With some improvement, Hernandez is sure to be a future pro-bowler.
4. Connor Williams, University of Texas
Connor Williams played left tackle throughout his career at Texas. Another extremely powerful pass protector that can guard the blind side of a franchise quarterback. He started 2 years at Texas and in his sophomore year he was an All-American. However, last year he was only started 5 games because of a left-knee injury. He has all the physical tools to be a long-term starter in the league as long as he can recover fully from his injury.
5. Kolton Miller, University of California, Los Angeles
Another left tackle, Kolton Miller was responsible for protecting Josh Rosen’s blind side throughout college. He has the size and quickness to be a successful offensive lineman in the NFL. He does need some time to improve his lateral movement against speedy pass rushers. With time and the right situation, Miller can be an effective tackle in the NFL.
