A.J. Cann OG South Carolina #50
Wt: 313
Size/Athleticism: Moderate size and strength. Meets minimum requirements but doesn’t stand out in terms of measurables. 32 5/8″ arms.
Pass Protection: Tends to drop back and let the pass-rushers come to him but has strong lower body which allows him to absorb the bull rush. Lacks the dominant size and length to completely stonewall interior pass-rushers. Usually does a great job staying low and is rarely driven back into the pocket without a solid fight, giving his quarterback enough time to get off the pass or maneuver away from pressure. Shows excellent awareness and can make the necessary adjustments on stunts and delayed blitzes. Shows the awareness and mobility to play in a zone blocking scheme.
Run Blocking: Moves well for his size. Can get to the second level and is perfectly capable of being used as a pulling guard. Gets the job done but isn’t dominant. Does blow defensive linemen off the spot with an initial punch, but generally locks on to his man and can drive him back with a fight.
Intangibles: Two-time team captain. Four-year starter. Played center in high school. Excelled academically. Went on a mission trip to Israel prior to 2014 season. A locker room favorite of both coaches and teammates.
Durability: No known issues. 51 career starts.
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Overview: Cann meets the minimum benchmarks for an NFL offensive guard but doesn’t really stand out in any one area. He was a productive college lineman who could transition to a role as a starting left guard in the pros, but has a limited ceiling. He tends to play not to get beat, rather than to be the aggressor in pass-protection, which is the area that really holds him back. He could start as a rookie, but shouldn’t be viewed as a guaranteed long-term answer.
