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What do you want from an offensive lineman? Do you want nasty? Yeah? How about really nasty? Still yeah? Okay, let's make it the nastiest of the nasty? You sure? Well that's La'el Collins. One of my favorite players in the draft. He's an aggressive, powerful player that you can plug in at guard and watch him go. Are the New York Giants interested?
Pros
- Most devastating run blocker in the draft.
- Possesses good short area quickness.
- Kick slide is smooth and quick.
- Very quick off the snap, especially as a run blocker.
- Arm length should be elite.
- Hand work is elite. If he gets 'em between the shoulder pads, the defender is done for the play.
- Nastiest offensive lineman I've seen in this draft.
Cons
- Atrocious balance, especially on running plays. Lunges way too much, and half the time you see him on the ground. Easily his biggest weakness.
- Despite long arms, just doesn't look like a tackle. Length everywhere else is lacking.
- Technique in pass protection needs work. Loses leverage at times and can get beaten by speed rushers.
Does He Fit With The Giants?
Schematically, he suffers from being mostly a drive blocker, while Ben McAdoo likes running zone plays. That doesn't mean that Collins isn't going to be drafted by the Giants, but there are adjustments that need to take place. He's also team captain and plays for the Giants' farm team, LSU. It's clear that they could use whatever talents he has for their offensive line in all seriousness, though. They need a shot in the arm.
Prospect Video
Big Board Rankings
Big Blue View - 13
Mocking The Draft - 12
CBS Sports - 14
Draft Tek - 27
Final Thoughts
The reason why Collins is ranked lower everywhere than Brandon Scherff is due to his technique issues. He really needs to clean those up and he could be dominant. He's already the best run blocker in the draft and putting him at guard and letting him get those vines up around the defender's shoulder pads would make it too easy. He's prone to mistakes however, and for him to get into the top 10 is a bit iffy because he projects mostly as a guard.