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As we wind down our 2012 NFL Draft Prospect Profile series let's look at another possible mid- to late-round, developmental type player the New York Giants recently had in for a visit.
Donald Stephenson of Oklahoma is an inexperienced player looked at as a guy not likely to be ready right away. In the never-ending quest for offensive tackles, however, he is intriguing.
From SI.com, which projects Stephenson as a forth- or fifth-round pick.
Positives: Underrated offensive tackle with a developing game. Quickly sets up off the snap, keeps his feet moving throughout the action and displays good footwork in pass protection. Bends his knees, sets with a wide base and displays good hand punch. Stays square, is strong and controls defenders once engaged at the point of attack. Quick out to the second level and shows the ability to redirect to linebackers then remove them from the action. Blocks down well on opponents and works hard until the whistle blows. Shows the ability to adjust and knock speedy pass rushers from their angle of attack.
Negatives: Must make better use of blocking angles. Ducks his head into blocks. Lacks a dominant base and gets tall as the play proceeds.
Analysis: After riding the bench as a freshman and sophomore at Oklahoma, Stephenson watched his game take off the past two years. He could develop into a starter at a number of offensive line positions.
NFL.com says:
Stephenson is a big offensive lineman who has been versatile at the tackle position. Far from a powerful mover, he is somewhat of a finesse blocker. He is quick in the run game and nasty when finishing plays. He relies more on competitiveness than strength to get the job done, but the fact that he's played both left and right tackle for a major program makes him a late-round pick with backup potential.
Donald Stephenson Profile
Height: 6-foot-6
Weight: 312 pounds
School: Oklahoma
40 time: 4.94