With the 19th Pick of the Draft the Dolphins Select: Ja’Wuan James

By Jonathan Dolan
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Updated: May 8, 2014

Why it Works: The Dolphins were in desperate need of OL after the Jonathan Martin issue last season. Ja’Wuan is a house of a player and probably would work out better at guard than Tackle. I don’t quite understand the thinking in Miami, they certainly reached for James 19.

Draft day Grade: C-

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.