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James Alder

James' Football Blog

By James Alder, About.com Guide to Football

Featured First-Round Prospect - Jake Long, OT Michigan

Sunday April 6, 2008
Considered by many to be the top offensive lineman in the 2008 NFL Draft, Michigan's Jake Long figures to be a hot commodity on draft day, and rightly so. He's a big, naturally powerful guy who has the potential to develop into a solid starting left tackle or a dominating right tackle.

Long's biggest asset is probably his run-blocking ability. He's a tough guy who plays with a nasty streak. He's not extremely mobile, but does a great job of getting to the second level and finishing off his blocks.

He's also a solid pass protector, but if there is one weakness in his game it's getting to the corner against speed rushers. I believe he may have a problem in this area against some of the better pass rushers in the NFL, which is why I think he would be a better fit on the right side.

Coming from a strong football program that is known for producing top offensive linemen also makes Long attractive to NFL scouts and it's hard to imagine him slipping out of the top ten selections in the 2008 NFL Draft. Boise State's Ryan Clady could challenge him for the honor of being the top offensive lineman off the board, but either way, he won't be around long.

Photo: Gregory Shamus / Getty Images

Comments

April 11, 2008 at 1:45 pm
(1) ErricMartin says:

He looks just like howey long of the oakland football raid,as.

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