Offensive tackle is probably the most coveted position on the offensive side of the football after quarterback, which makes sense because they protect the most expensive player on the NFL field. But they’re hard to judge, evaluate and develop. This is why teams are desperate for a fix at the position seemingly every year when the NFL draft comes around.
This year’s NFL draft will present a collection of talented players who could help teams in need once again. And two SEC schools could have both of their starting tackles selected early when the selection process begins this spring.
Kelvin Banks Jr. and Cameron Williams—Texas
Banks (6–4, 320, junior) is the top tackle prospect in the class and will likely be a top-10 pick. He’s a dominant edge protector. Williams (6–5, 335, junior) is also a strong prospect in pass protection and the run and could be a Day 2 selection.Campbell (6–6, 323, junior) will also likely be an early first-round pick. He’s everything an NFL team wants protecting its quarterback. Jones (6–6, 315, junior), like Williams, could be the second tackle from a university to hear his name called in the first three rounds.
Simmons (6–5, 310, senior) has worked in front of multiple quarterbacks during his collegiate career and been effective in the Big Ten against strong rush groups.
Ersery (6–6, 330, senior) is a mountain of a tackle who has made a name for himself on a Minnesota team that hasn’t received the level of national attention as the other programs with tackles on our list.
Belton (6–6, 336, senior) has played well against SEC opponents this season. The Florida native could be a strong consideration starting in the late second round.
Membou (6–3, 314, junior) may be a prospect who projects more as a guard at the NFL level because of his size. He’s done a nice job in the SEC for Missouri this year.
