Daily NFL Draft Prospect Profile: Ciron Black, OT, LSU

[Remember to check the '2010 NFL Draft' section for all stories relating to the draft.]

The need to add young, talented players to the New York Giants offensive line is often discussed here at Big Blue View. So, as we continue our Daily NFL Draft Prospect Profile series, let's look at one of the intriguing offensive linemen in this year's draft class.

Ciron Black of LSU.

Black is probably not in the upper echelon of linemen in the draft -- meaning he likely is not a first round selection. But, he is an athletic guy projected to have right tackle or guard ability.

So, let's take a closer look.

Ciron Black Scouting Reports

Draft Countdown projects Black as a mid-round pick, and has this to say about the 6-foot-5, 322-pounder from LSU.

Above average athleticism --- Stout at the point of attack --- Capable of getting an outstanding push in the run game.

Inconsistent --- Heavy feet --- Limited mobility and range --- Average balance --- Not very agile.

Played left tackle in college but projects to right tackle or perhaps even guard at the next level --- Has the sheer talent to start in the NFL but will need to get in better shape and be more consistent --- Not quite the pro prospect that his college press clippings would  lead you to believe.

From the National Football Post.

Black isn't real athletic and is slow to get out of his stance. Lacking the range to cleanly reach the corner, he isn't a real impressive pass blocker and has a tendency to lunge into blocks. Struggles to redirect in space and doesn't exhibit the type of fluidity to hold up on an island at the next level. Black, however, possesses a powerful upper body. When he latches onto a defender, he does a nice job staying on blocks. Is at his best in the run game, where he exhibits an above-average first step and can generate good power from his lower half. Black demonstrates the ability to create movement inside as an in-line run blocker, but he will eventually fall off his blocks. Lacking the ideal athleticism, he will have a tough time making his way onto an NFL field as a starting offensive tackle.

From Walter Football.

Summary: I really like Black as an offensive line prospect and [he] should make some team very happy in the second round. Teams need linemen who can play three or more positions, and Black can be a very good starter at guard or right tackle. He lacks the athleticism to play left tackle in the NFL, but he should find a nice home somewhere.

Player Comparison: Vernon Carey. Carey lacked the athleticism to play left tackle, but has been a dominant run-blocker for the Dolphins at right tackle, and also gives versatility as a guard.

Why Black fits with the Giants

Versatility. The Giants might need a guard to replace Rich Seubert eventually. They might need a right tackle to replace Kareem McKenzie. They could definitely use a versatile young linemen who could, as the very least, fill in capably at a multitude of positions. The second round might be early for Black, but bringing in young, talented offensive linemen is never a bad idea.

Why the Giants should pass

That versatility could also be a curse. What is Black's best position? And, is he a younger Guy Whimper, or a player who could develop into a starting caliber lineman? If he's a career backup, he might not be worth an early selection.

(E-mail Ed at bigblueview@gmail.com. Follow Big Blue View on Twitter.)