Draft Profile Series: Ja’Wuan James
- Updated: May 5, 2014
As we approach the deepest NFL Draft in recent memory, I’ll give my breakdown and analysis of 75 top prospects in this year’s class. At the conclusion of this series, I will include my final overall and positional rankings, as well as a mock draft.
Ja’Wuan James, OT, 6-6, 311, Tennessee
Key stats: Started 37 consecutive games for the Volunteers.
Strengths: Big, rangy player. … Very long and uses that advantage as a good pass protector. … Pretty good technique while pass blocking. … Hand placement is good. … When he fires low, has ability to drive block. … Also has enough athleticism to occasionally play on the move to get out on screens or stalk block linebackers. … Has versatility to play either tackle spot.
Weaknesses: Loses his technique at times while run blocking. … Plays too high and gives up leverage. … Lunges forward at times and gets beat while off balance. … Sometimes is too aggressive and comes up in pass protection instead of shuffling feet and keeping position.
Conclusion: James is a good pass blocker and should really improve his run blocking. His flaws in this area are correctable, and as he adds functional strength and technique, he should develop into a good offensive tackle in the NFL. … Played right tackle for the Volunteers, but could make the transition to left tackle in the NFL.
NFL comparison: Joe Barksdale/Jordan Mills.
Draft projection: Second round.
Related Posts
About Nick Sardina
