NFL Scouting Combine 2011: 7 Offensive Linemen That Improved Their Stock

Two days ago, the offensive linemen and tight ends weighed in at the 2011 National Football League Scouting Combine in Indianapolis.

Almost nobody hurt their draft stock while several other players looked very, very impressive. There were some of the many players that improved their stock before even taking part in any of the drills.

Here is a look at seven offensive lineman the Eagles could target.

Rodney Hudson, OG, Florida State

Hudson has long been regarded as one of the more dominant offensive linemen in college football. However, he played at only around 280 pounds for most of his career. He needed to add more weight to prove that he could be effective at the next level, which he did. Hudson measured in at 6’2″, 299 pounds and is a second or third round pick.

Anthony Castonzo, OT, Boston College

Castonzo weighed in at 311 pounds, which is a big improvement over the 295 he was playing at last season. He’s one of the four tackles who will almost surely be taken in the first round.

Nate Solder, OT, Colorado

Nate Solder continues to fill out his 6’8″ frame and weighed in at 319 pounds yesterday. Teams see him continuing his development and he has potential to easily add another 15-20 pounds. Solder was originally a tight end, so his potential is unlimited. Solder ran a great 4.97 time at the Combine.

Ben Ijalana, OT, Villanova

Ijalana was a dominant left tackle against lesser competition, but was projected to have to move inside to guard. However, at 6’4″ with extremely long arms, he is capable of playing either tackle or guard. He’s definitely a second round selection. Ijalana weighed in at 317 pounds.

Tyron Smith, OT, USC

One of the biggest questions with Tyron Smith was his size. This was not a big deal to me because he was a very effective run blocker even at 285 pounds. However, he weighed in at 307, and could be taken in the top 15 picks now. If the Eagles fall in love with the USC product, they could package a few of their picks to trade up for Smith.

Marcus Cannon, OG, TCU

Cannon weighed in at 358 pounds, down from the 370 he had been playing at in TCU. He ran a respectable 5.20 in the 40 yard dash, especially for a man his size. With 34 inch arms, Cannon seems like a lock to go in the 2nd round, and should be available when the Eagles pick.

Gabe Carimi, OT, Wisconsin

Carimi has been a favorite for the Eagles in mock drafts. He is a towering figure, standing at 6'7''. With 35 inch arms, Carimi will likely still remain in the first round.

There were others who helped their stock, here are just a few that stood out.