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Menelik Watson OT Florida State #71
Wt: 310
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Size/Athleticism: Elite athleticism for his size. Can easily pick up blocks down the field. Limited experience at left tackle, but definitely has the athleticism needed to play the position. Average height, but decent overall size and strength.
Pass Protection: Athleticism allows him to mirror more athletic pass-rushers. Really physical player with very active hands. Gets the job done more based on his raw talent than his fundamentals. His footwork is sloppy and hand placement is inconsistent. He wins a lot of battles simply by having a size/athleticism combination that defensive linemen can’t match up with. Shows decent awareness in pass protection. Keeps his head up and picks up delayed blitzes. Isn’t always quick off the snap in pass protection. He has the athleticism to recover most of the time, but it will hurt him against speed rushers in the NFL.
Run Blocking: Quick off the snap and drives defenders backward. Does a nice job staying low and using leverage. Occasionally used to pull and easily gets down field. Can get to the second level and pick up blocks on the move. Sometimes struggles to see the field and recognize where he needs pick up a block when he’s on the move. Gets lost at times when there isn’t immediately a man in his area to block. Very physical; fights through the whistle and finishes off his blocks. Rare to see a lineman with the athleticism to be a finesse blocker play with such intensity.
Intangibles: Grew up in England playing basketball and soccer. Only has two years of experience playing football. Also has some experience as a boxer.
Durability: No known issues.
Comments: Watson is a fascinating prospect with tons of upside due to his limited experience. He played right tackle at Florida State but clearly has the athleticism to move to the right side. A lot of guys with his athleticism who are new to the sport tend to be more finesse players, but Watson has a nice blend. He’s definitely a project, but could potentially start immediately on the right side and grow into a franchise left tackle role.
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