B/R NFL 1,000: Top 32 Right Tackles

The left tackle position has a catchy nickname—"the blind side"—that gained popularity through a book and a movie. But what about that "other" side? If any one position along the offensive line gets forgotten most, it's the right tackle. At Bleacher Report, we love right tackles.

When looking at the "strong side" of the line, which blockers make up the best of the best?

To find out, we've determined what makes up a great right tackle and which players best represent those traits. The quest comes as part of the B/R NFL 1,000. The new series offers an in-depth look at every position in the NFL, breaking down players' skills in a way never before seen on the Internet.

BR 1,000 rankings don't assess who had the best year or even who has the most potential. Rather players—in this case, right tackles—are judged on their current skills and mechanics, based on film study of the 2011 NFL preseason and regular season only. 

After hours spent scouting every starter and every potential starter, the top 32 right tackles have been scored in 10 criteria (here's more on the criteria). In the slides that follow, we'll explain each player's strengths and weaknesses as the final ranking is revealed.

Agility

Colombo (No. 71 in photo) is among the least athletic of the top players at his position. Struggles to get off the line and lacks the quickness or balance to make an impact in space.

Pass Block, Speed

Lacks the agility to get to the corner consistently and under control, and the strength to knock rushers off once he reaches the corner. 

Pass Block, Power

Not strong enough to pin defenders when they try to bull-rush him. Will give up his inside shoulder far too quickly. Cannot shuffle in space to redirect pass-rushers.

Run Blocking

Struggles to keep his pads down and doesn't have the strength to drive tacklers out of the play.  

Move in Space

Colombo has the quickness to get out in space, but he doesn't see the field well and can be a liability when asked to get upfield on screens.

Pull/Trap

Average at leading on tosses and would rather be used coming back to wham a defender crashing the backfield on traps.  

Strength

He doesn't show great field strength when locking on with defenders. Can hit with an initial impact, but doesn't block through the defender.

Technique

Has quick hands and solid reflexes. A natural knee-bender who must improve his hand placement and his balance when taking kick steps. Poor angles result in too many penalties.

Size

Colombo is an imposing 6'8", 319 lbs.  

Health

Did not miss a start in 2011. 

Overall

Colombo is no more than a stopgap at the position. The Miami run game and pass blocking suffered greatly from a lack of balance at the position in 2011, and they will look to make improvements here through the offseason.

Agility

A limited athlete with below-average ability to slide laterally. Hunter doesn't adjust well on the move and is slow to reset himself out of his stance.

Pass Block, Speed

Has the size and quickness to be great in this area but misses on blocks and can give up the edge too often with poor timing and poor angles.

Pass Block, Power

Has been run over a good number of times. Needs to solidify his stance off the snap and prepare for a bull rush. 

Run Blocking

Lacks the strength to be a force in this area. He shows good pad level, smart leverage and the quickness to get out in front of the play.

Move in Space

Hunter struggles to re-establish himself and get upfield, especially in the screen game. 

Pull/Trap

Doesn't work well getting out in front of the play, due to limited mobility. Can hook the end and seal on the left side for cutback lanes and zone stretches.

Strength

Hunter has average strength. Shows a strong base and good sting on his punches. Not so strong when locking on with defenders.

Technique

Gave up 11 sacks in 2011 and was penalized 11 times. Both numbers show that Hunter is slow in getting off the ball and doesn't have the technique to slide and recover.  

Size

Well-built at 6'6" and 303 lbs, but is a little lighter than most right tackles.   

Health

Started every game in 2011.   

Overall

A savvy veteran of eight seasons who serves best as a backup or situational starter, Hunter's best days are behind him. The New York Jets took 11 quarterback hits, 11 sacks and 32 hurries behind the so-so play of their right tackle.

Agility

Clary is a limited athlete who can be effective but struggles against quicker pass-rushers. 

Pass Block, Speed

Allowed seven sacks in 2011, all against speed-rushers. Doesn't have the quickness or reach to redirect fast defenders coming off the edge. Gave up 42 pressures.

Pass Block, Power

Better here, but still average. Clary is good when he can lock his arms on an end or tackle charging off the line. Has average strength and can get pushed back.

Run Blocking

Struggles to get out of his stance, fails to drive the pile and is ineffective when asked to fire off and push the defense.

Move in Space

Below average in space. Doesn't have the agility to move laterally with elite balance, quickness or control.    

Pull/Trap

Limited mobility prevents his getting out in front of a play.  

Strength

Strength moving inside is good, but when asked to punch and redirect he's weak. Not strong enough to stand on his own on the edge.

Technique

The most penalized of any right tackle we ranked, with 11 on the season.  

Size

Has ideal size and bulk at 6'6", 320 lbs. 

Health

Started every game in 2011. 

Overall

Clary was a lesson in mediocrity in 2011, his fifth season. He was slow off the ball, failed to protect the edge and struggled to move the pile.  

 

Agility

3

Trueblood is not very mobile or athletic. Is stiff at the knees and more of a waist-bender. Below starter-quality quickness.

Pass Block, Speed

3

Only gave up four sacks this year, but allowed 50 quarterback pressures. Struggles to cut off speed-rushers. 

Pass Block, Power

3.5

Lacks the flexibility and agility to sink his hips and drop his weight to take on power-rushers. Poor hand placement and angles leave him getting run over by big ends. 

Run Blocking

3.5

Will miss blocks at times and can fail to get to the second level. Struggles to keep his pads down.  

Move in Space

5.5

Trueblood has limited agility and struggles with footwork and execution in space.    

Pull/Trap

5

Doesn't move well laterally. A stand-up tackle who shouldn't be asked to pull or trap.  

Strength

5

He's been inconsistent here. Doesn't show the field strength to stop power-rushers or push the pile against the run.  

Technique

4.5

Seven penalties weren't bad in '11, but Trueblood doesn't slide well into protection, gets run over too easily and is all-around below average.  

Size

10

Ideal NFL size at 6'8", 320 lbs.   

Health

9

Missed one game with injury in 2011.   

Overall

52

A disappointing player, Trueblood, a six-season veteran, struggled to do anything effectively. His lack of agility means he's unlikely to be more than a backup. 

 

Agility

5.5

An average athlete with good lateral agility but not elite quickness. Has decent burst out of his stance and good enough balance and flexibility.   

Pass Block, Speed

4

Louis allowed five sacks against Kansas City in one 2011 game. Anyone wondering if he should be starting at tackle should re-watch this game. 

Pass Block, Power

4

The Kansas City game showed not only that Louis can't handle speed-rushers, but that he can't position himself to shut down a 5-technique defensive end lined up right across from him.  

Run Blocking

4

Lacks the leverage and the quickness to get out in front of the play. Needs to learn how to take the right angles. Awareness is below average. 

Move in Space

4.5

Louis doesn't show good range on pass protection and would be much better lining up inside where he's not asked to extend. 

Pull/Trap

4

He's not great at leading on tosses and would rather be used coming from inside at guard. 

Strength

7

Good enough strength but could benefit from added upper-body strength and flexibility. 

Technique

5.5

Louis' awareness is very poor. Doesn't get his eyes up off the snap. Lacks the coordination to punch and to shuffle his feet. 

Size

7

Undersized at 6'3" and 300 lbs. Looks more like a guard or center. 

Health

8

Missed three games in 2011 due to injury. 

Overall

53.5

Louis has the look and ability of a guard, not a right tackle. He was thrown into the mix when rookie Gabe Carimi couldn't go and should move to the inside in 2012. 

 

Agility

5

Richardson is an average athlete—his lateral agility is fine, but he's slow. Decent burst out of his stance and good enough balance and flexibility.   

Pass Block, Speed

4.5

Too often gets caught reaching from behind or beside rushers, which leads to holding calls. Better position is the key.  

Pass Block, Power

4.5

Inconsistent against the rush and can be run over too easily. Doesn't handle counter moves well and fails to get his lower body ready to stop power moves.

Run Blocking

2

A perfect display of how to not run block is Richardson's Week 8 game against San Diego in 2011. Few current blockers have been worse at pushing the pile than Richardson. 

Move in Space

5

Struggles in the screen game to chip, re-establish himself and get upfield. He has limited agility and struggles with footwork and execution in space.    

Pull/Trap

5

Doesn't move well laterally. Limited agility and limited athleticism. 

Strength

5

Another inconsistent area. His strength moving inside is good, but when asked to punch and redirect he's weak.  

Technique

5

Nine penalties in 2011, most of them coming when trying to salvage a block after being beaten off the ball. 

Size

10

Massive at 6'7" and 320 lbs. 

Health

10

Started all 16 games at right tackle in 2011. 

Overall

56

One of the least impressive players scouted. Richardson has good ability, but his execution and awareness are poor. Kansas City will be looking to upgrade at right tackle. 

 

Agility

4.5

A limited athlete, Linkenbach can be effective at times but often struggles against elite pass-rushers. Would benefit from a move to guard.

Pass Block, Speed

4.5

Showed decent recovery, but also below-average awareness and quickness out of his stance.  

Pass Block, Power

4.5

Handled 5-technique defensive ends—those lining up on his outside shoulder—better than players farther down the line from the ball, in a 6- or 9-technique. Has short arms, so he works better inside. 

Run Blocking

2.5

Was absolutely terrible in two 2011 meetings with Houston. Couldn't get out of his stance, couldn't drive the pile and was ineffective nearly every snap. 

Move in Space

4.5

An average player in space, doesn't have the agility to move laterally with elite balance, quickness or control.   

Pull/Trap

5.5

Doesn't work well getting out in front of the play due to limited mobility from the tackle spot. Would be better coming around the backside at guard.

Strength

8

Good strength and bulk provide a strong base. Impressive at the point of attack. 

Technique

5

Penalized just four times all season, impressive considering how many times he was beat off the ball. Doesn't shuffle well to the outside and lacks the crisp punch to knock defenders off.  

Size

9

Just short of ideal size. Linkenbach is 6'4" and 311 lbs.  

Health

10

Started all 16 games in 2011, his second season. 

Overall

58

Linkenbach was thrown into the lineup when rookie Ben Ijalana wasn't able to go. He projects best at guard. 

 

Agility

6

Has decent agility but is very inconsistent. Doesn't possess great body control or quickness. Struggles to keep his balance when coming out of a three-point stance.  

Pass Block, Speed

4.5

The New York Giants exploited Carpenter's vulnerabilities to the tune of two sacks, one quarterback hit and three additional pressures in Week 5 of the 2011 season.  

Pass Block, Power

4.5

Looked decent against 5-technique defensive ends but struggled with stunts and doesn't recover well from initial move. 

Run Blocking

6

Can get his pads low and drive off the ball. Would score much higher here if more consistent.   

Move in Space

4.5

Not much of a mover. Does a good job getting out in front of screens and tosses.   

Pull/Trap

6

Going into second season, he needs to learn how to get in front of the play. Surprising to see him hook the end and seal on the left side for cutback lanes and zone stretches.   

Strength

7

A strong base but will benefit from added upper-body strength that will come with time.  

Technique

5

Flagged nine times in just eight games. Carpenter's technique was to hold if beaten. His recovery and reaction were disappointing. 

Size

9

A bit short at 6'4", but good bulk and solid weight at 320 lbs.   

Health

6

Injuries restricted him to eight starts in 2011.  

Overall

58.5

Carpenter was a surprise first-round pick in the 2011 NFL draft, and thus far he hasn't lived up to that billing. A healthy 2012 will be key. 

 

Agility

5

An average athlete who shows good quickness off the line when going forward, but struggles with balance and control when stepping back. 

Pass Block, Speed

1

McKenzie had a good game to open 2011, but it was all downhill from there. Allowed the second-most quarterback pressures (47) of any tackle. 

Pass Block, Power

1

Victimized on two occasions by Philadelphia Eagles end Jason Babin in 2011. He couldn't handle Babin's quickness and his ability to shrug off blocks and swat away McKenzie's punches. 

Run Blocking

5

A good power-blocker who can drive off the line if not asked to reach or extend. Can get his pads low and drive off the ball.  

Move in Space

5.5

Limited ability to get to the second level, toward the defensive backfield. Is average at attacking angles and clearing space. Not a factor on screen packages.  

Pull/Trap

5.5

Doesn't move well laterally. A stand-up tackle who shouldn't be asked to pull or trap.    

Strength

10

Shows exceptional strength when he's able to lock on to defenders.  

Technique

7

Gets high at times, but is a natural knee-bender who looks clean coming out of his stance. When facing slower ends, his technique shows up and is a positive.  

Size

10

Ideal size and bulk at 6'6", 330 lbs.  

Health

10

Started every game in 2011.   

Overall

60

No offensive tackle regressed more in 2011 than McKenzie. He's a true liability in the passing game and someone the Giants will want to discard heading into 2012. 

 

Agility

5.5

Whimper shows above-average quickness at times but is far too inconsistent in firing off the ball and in his kick step—the initial step back to cut off a rusher. 

Pass Block, Speed

4

Among the worst pass-protectors graded. Struggles to get out of his stance and doesn't finish his blocks.   

Pass Block, Power

4

Lacks awareness and often fails to recover and reset to battle second and third moves. 

Run Blocking

5.5

Dominated as a run-blocker against Carolina and San Diego in 2011, but wasn't impressive in other games viewed. 

Move in Space

5

A limited athlete with average quickness off the ball. Doesn't show the body control to consistently get to the second level.  

Pull/Trap

5.5

Not mobile enough to do the job. A stand-up tackle.  

Strength

7

Has good strength, but doesn't take advantage of his size.  

Technique

6

Must get better at keeping his pad level down. Comes out high and will get blown over by rushers because he's not set to mirror or slide.  

Size

8

Is light for the right side, coming in just over 300 lbs and 6'6".  

Health

10

Started 15 games in 2011, including one at left tackle. 

Overall

60.5

After six seasons, Whimper's window for improvement is just about shut.

Agility

Cherilus is not a great athlete. Is stiff at the knees and more of a waist-bender.   

Pass Block, Speed

Allowed nine sacks in 2011, most of them coming at the hands of outside speed-rushers.  

Pass Block, Power

Inconsistent. He can improve his footwork as well as hand placement. Has the strength to be much better. 

Run Blocking

Will miss blocks at times and doesn't always get into the second line of defense. Doesn't always keep his pads down. 

Move in Space

Struggles in the screen game to chip, recover and get upfield. Has limited agility and needs to improve his footwork in space.

Pull/Trap

Doesn't move well laterally. Limited agility and limited athleticism. Not equipped to pull or trap. 

Strength

Above-average strength. Shows a strong base and good sting on his punches. Shows good field strength when locking on with defenders. 

Technique

Doesn't get penalized much, but struggles to finish blocks. Must do a better job of making contact and carrying out his block through the play.  

Size

A monster at 6'7" and 315 lbs.   

Health

Started all 16 games in 2011.   

Overall

Cherilus has good potential, but in four seasons he's never put it all together on the field. He'll go weeks at a time giving up at least one sack per game. Detroit could look to upgrade at right tackle. 

Agility

Showed above-average athleticism in his rookie season. Has quick feet and good instincts. Will see an increase in score once he is more confident in his movements. 

Pass Block, Speed

Four of the six sacks Franklin allowed in 2011 came against teams running a 3-4 defense. He struggles to get out of his stance quickly enough to cut off pass-rushers coming from the outside. 

Pass Block, Power

There is good potential here. Can set his feet and stand his ground against power moves. Was impressive against Green Bay's defensive line play in Week 4 of '11. 

Run Blocking

Doesn't lock on fast enough. Needs to use his strength better to drive defenders out of the hole. Gets way too high in his stance and doesn't overpower tacklers.  

Move in Space

Would like to see Franklin move better and with more control on sweeps and screen plays. Needs to stay lower when moving.  

Pull/Trap

Doesn't get out in front of the play. Needs more balance and body control.

Strength

Bulky and strong enough but doesn't show great field strength when locking on with defenders. Can and will improve with offseason program. 

Technique

Franklin improved throughout the season but was flagged too often for holding. His hand placement needs help. Shows good awareness. 

Size

At 6'5" and 316 lbs, Franklin has a tall, lean build. He looks more bulky than he is.   

Health

Didn't miss a game in 2011.  

Overall

A prospect thrown to the wolves in 2011, Franklin acclimated himself well and had stretches of very good play mixed in with some bad games. 

Agility

Davis boasts elite agility, quickness and athleticism. If he can tap into his talents, he could be among the top five right tackles. 

Pass Block, Speed

Watch the Baltimore Ravens run over Davis in Week 12 of 2011, if you need support for this score. 

Pass Block, Power

Doesn't follow through on blocks. Will punch and then struggle to adjust and reset. Very inconsistent. It's as if he doesn't see pass-rushers at times.  

Run Blocking

Should be dominant here, but he's not. Doesn't fire with the burst to push defenders off the ball. Has the tools to be good in space, but doesn't pick up blockers well. 

Move in Space

Exceptional ability to chop his feet in space. Davis is quick enough to get out in front of the run and is used very well on screen packages. 

Pull/Trap

Again, great quickness and flexibility in his hips to come off the line and change direction. 

Strength

Has just average strength for the position. Could benefit from more offseason weightlifting. 

Technique

Flashes good technique, but all too often takes bad angles and gets off the ball with poor leverage. Against Pittsburgh in Week 15, Davis was brilliant. That game helped him a lot here. 

Size

Davis has great size at 6'5", 323 lbs, with a big base and the arm length to dominate. 

Health

Started every game in 2011, his second season. 

Overall

In terms of execution, Davis was one of the worst players I saw—t any position. His athleticism saves him.  

Agility

Decent agility seems to come and go. Brown has played left and right tackle, but should stick to the right side at this point in his seven-year career. 

Pass Block, Speed

Can be blown off the ball by a speed rush. Doesn't have the quickness or agility to shuffle back and cut off speed-rushers.   

Pass Block, Power

Lacks strength and is inconsistent in maintaining proper pad level. 

Run Blocking

Better here on pad level, but lacks the leverage and the quickness to get out in front of the play. 

Move in Space

Struggles with footwork and execution. Has enough agility to play on the move, and can help extend the pocket.

Pull/Trap

Only average moving laterally and as an athlete—not a great fit in the zone blocking scheme. 

Strength

Shows much better strength in the run game. His strength moving inside is good, but when asked to punch and redirect he's weak. 

Technique

Avoided penalties in 2011, but didn't show the right angles or awareness to grade higher. Experience makes up for some lack of talent. 

Size

Ideal size to play left or right tackle at 6'6", 313 lbs. 

Health

Missed four games with injury in 2011.  

Overall

A former starter at left tackle, Brown has re-established himself as an average right tackle in Washington's zone scheme. 

Agility

Pears is an average athlete with good lateral agility but not elite quickness. Has decent burst out of his stance and adequate balance and flexibility.  

Pass Block, Speed

Too often gets caught reaching for, then holding rushers. 

Pass Block, Power

Can be run over too easily. Is far too strong to play as poorly as he does here. 

Run Blocking

Struggles to keep his pads down and doesn't have the strength to drive tacklers out of the play. A major area of concern. 

Move in Space

Struggles in the screen game. Footwork and general execution are lacking.   

Pull/Trap

Not enough of an athlete to pull or trap—a stand-up tackle.   

Strength

Upper-echelon strength, but it doesn't always translate to the field. Is very inconsistent, flashing the strength to be elite and then failing to use it on the next play. 

Technique

Too many penalties and poor hand placement that allows defensive ends to shed him.  

Size

Massive at 6'8" and 312 lbs. 

Health

Started every game in 2011. 

Overall

It was very surprising that the Bills signed Pears to a contract extension in December. The seven-season veteran is average in every area other than in strength. 

Agility

An not-so-quick athlete with good lateral agility. Keith has decent burst out of his stance and fine balance.  

Pass Block, Speed

Has the size (6'5", 335 lbs) to improve in this area, but he misses on blocks and can give up the edge too often. Doesn't slide well enough and may lack the quickness to be elite.

Pass Block, Power

Doesn't have great strength, but is strong enough to pin defenders when they try to bull-rush him. Doesn't play up to his strength. 

Run Blocking

Shows good pad level, smart leverage and the speed to get out in front of the play. Will miss blocks at times and can fail to get past the first line.  

Move in Space

Just average. Has the feet to mirror and slide with defenders at the line of scrimmage but doesn't show good range on pass protection.  

Pull/Trap

He's not great at leading on tosses and looks more comfortable coming back to his right to wham a defender crashing the backfield on traps.  

Strength

Good enough but could stand to add upper-body strength and flexibility.

Technique

Just one penalty all season in 2011, but his lack of technique on run blocks and when facing stunts is frustrating. 

Size

Right for right tackle. At left tackle, he would be 30 lbs too heavy. 

Health

Didn't play in the last two games of 2011. 

Overall

Keith, a four-year veteran, improved down the stretch in '11, but his first eight weeks of the season were among the worst at his position. 

Agility

Barnes is a limited athlete who can be effective but struggles against elite pass-rushers. 

Pass Block, Speed

Does a good job setting up and sliding laterally to stop speed-rushers. Can get overrun at the corner.

Pass Block, Power

Has the strength and solid base to sit down on the edge and hold his own against power-rushers. Plays with good balance. 

Run Blocking

Struggles to push the pile against the run. Doesn't get off with enough leverage or burst to handle the run game. 

Move in Space

An average player in space, doesn't have the agility to move laterally with elite balance, quickness or control.  

Pull/Trap

Doesn't work well getting out in front of the play due to limited mobility. Can hook the end and seal on the left side for cutback lanes and zone stretches.  

Strength

Has a strong base and sufficient bulk. Barnes could benefit from more upper-body strength.  

Technique

Inconsistent and gives way too easily. Needs to improve his strength, hand placement and footwork— and to cut down on penalties.  

Size

Barnes is 6'5", 325 lbs. 

Health

Started all 16 games in 2011, his seventh season. 

Overall

Barnes would be a very good backup tackle, playing either left or right, but he's not a starter. Barnes is a liability at right tackle. 

Agility

A good overall athlete, but isn't flexible enough. Is quick and has a good burst.  

Pass Block, Speed

Surprisingly good against speed-rushers, Pashos held his own in 2011, notably against Pittsburgh in Week 14. 

Pass Block, Power

Can sit down on a pass-rusher and lock him up. Does a good job pinning rushers inside their pads and driving up.   

Run Blocking

Really struggles as a run-blocker. Doesn't get into defenders and drive them back. Stands too high as he tries to clear space.  

Move in Space

Needs to be lower to the ground and move with more control on sweeps and screen plays. 

Pull/Trap

Doesn't play great under his pads. Can eat up ground with big steps, but lacks the leverage or lower-body strength to lock on. 

Strength

Fundamentally strong with a wide frame and solid base. 

Technique

Gets a little high and a little too far outside with his hand placement at times. Would like to see better awareness on the edge. 

Size

At 6'6", 325 lbs, he's just right for an NFL starter. 

Health

Hurt against Houston in Week 9 of 2011, but returned to action.  

Overall

One of the more surprising players in B/R's scouting of right tackles. Pashos is better in pass sets than I had given him credit for. 

Agility

Smith's superior agility and quickness fit him into the mold of an active right tackle. 

Pass Block, Speed

Has the quickness to be great in this area, but he misses blocks and can give up the edge too often because of poor timing and poor finishing on his blocks.  

Pass Block, Power

Doesn't have great strength, but is strong enough to pin defenders when they try to bull-rush him. Inconsistent. He can improve his footwork as well as hand placement.  

Run Blocking

Struggles as a run-blocker. Doesn't lock on or have the strength to drive defenders out of the hole. 

Move in Space

Shows good range on pass protection. Can quickly get to the corner. Has the feet to mirror and slide with defenders at the line of scrimmage. 

Pull/Trap

Will stretch and get to linebackers. Can get out and lead on sweeps and tosses. Does a good job walling off defenders on the backside of the play.  

Strength

Good strength with a strong base. Hard to gauge Smith's true strength, as he's often playing injured.   

Technique

Poor angles result in too many penalties and missed assignments. Looks like his concentration lapses. Poor awareness. 

Size

Smith is an ideal size for the position—6'5", 308 lbs.  

Health

Started just six games in 2011, his third season.  

Overall

Smith was the No. 2 overall pick out of Baylor in the 2009 NFL draft for a reason, but he hasn't played up to that potential. Smith had a good 2010 season, but he was hurt for most of 2011.

Agility

Gilbert is athletic enough to be considered for a move to the left side in 2012. 

Pass Block, Speed

Has the length, quick hands and footwork to be very good against speed-rushers. 

Pass Block, Power

Is a natural knee-bender, and has sufficient agility. Potential is very high.  

Run Blocking

Definitely struggled in his first season to drive defenders off the ball. Needs to work on technique and leverage. 

Move in Space

Does a good job clearing out the first line of defense and then looking to get downfield.   

Pull/Trap

Still learning the intricacies of the blocking scheme. Will get better here as he gets more comfortable. 

Strength

Has shown he can handle a strong punch. Stays stationary in his set and is strong enough to maintain his leverage.   

Technique

Gilbert's pass technique looked good, but his run blocking was atrocious. Too high off the ball and didn't sink his hips to drive-block defenders. 

Size

At 6'6" and 330 lbs, Gilbert is a very big man. 

Health

Missed two games in 2011.  

Overall

Lots of potential as he prepares for his second season, but there were issues. On top of his run-blocking deficiencies, he struggled twice in 2011 against Cleveland in pass sets. 

Agility

Not athletic enough to handle elite pass-rushers. 

Pass  Block, Speed

Had his worst games against teams with speed-rushers (Detroit, Kansas City, Green Bay) in 2011.

Pass Block, Power

Does a good job standing his ground against a bull rush. Strong lower and upper body help him stonewall inside rushes. 

Run Blocking

Does a great job kicking out defensive ends and moving the pile. Locks on and pushes like none other. Can drive-block defenders out of his zone. The best run-blocking offensive tackle in football.

Move in Space

Has big, long legs and can be a bit off balance when moving laterally. Isn't agile enough to be a factor here. 

Pull/Trap

Lack of coordination hurts him here, too. 

Strength

Is in a world by himself when it comes to strength. Fires off and levels defenders. 

Technique

Flagged for 10 penalties in 2011. Lunges at defenders too much and doesn’t always get proper arm extension. 

Size

At 6'8" and 343 lbs, Loadholt blocks out the sun.   

Health

Didn't miss a start in 2011, his third season. 

Overall

Loadholt is in rare company when it comes to run blocking and controlling the edge with power. He's not an agile player, but does very well at what the Vikings need. 

Agility

Herremans is quick off the ball and moves well laterally. Snaps up quickly and with good balance. Shows very good body control and awareness.   

Pass Block, Speed

Above average in setting up and sliding laterally to stop speed-rushers. Doesn't give up many sacks. 

Pass Block, Power

Isn't an overly powerful blocker, but really dominates because of his seven seasons of experience. Takes the correct angle and uses the right leverage to throw players off their game. 

Run Blocking

Does an excellent job locking on defenders and driving off the ball. Stuns would-be tacklers with a quick hit. Sets up blocks well by shading defenders out of the hole.  

Move in Space

Average in space, can be slow or stumble getting to the corner. 

Pull/Trap

Is smart and takes good angles, but has never been quick enough to get out in front. 

Strength

Is strong enough to control the line of scrimmage.

Technique

Has few flaws, but gets too high out of the blocks when run blocking and doesn't have great leg drive. 

Size

Long, lean and with a great wingspan—6'6", 321 lbs.  

Health

Started 16 games in 2011. 

Overall

Once considered little more than a space-filler, Herremans had a great 2011 season and has to be considered a long-term starter on the Philadelphia offensive line. 

 

Agility

6.5

Smith (left, in the photo) is just an average athlete, struggles to slide laterally and can be very stiff in his movements. Doesn't possess great body control. 

Pass Block, Speed

8

Isn't blown off the ball by a speed rush. He has the initial quickness and agility to shuffle back and cut off rushers.    

Pass Block, Power

8

This is his forte. Excellent at pinning defenders and engulfing them. 

Run Blocking

7.5

Keeps his feet churning through blocks. Establishes good pad level and smart leverage. Quick enough to get out in front of the play. 

Move in Space

6.5

Not much of a mover. Does a good job getting out in front of screens and tosses. Has great vision and knows where to be on the field.  

Pull/Trap

6

Not mobile enough to lead the way but can hook the end and seal on the left side.  

Strength

8

Shows off his strength when locking onto defenders. 

Technique

7.5

Still raw and improving through three seasons. Will get too high in his sets and draws penalties by putting his hands outside the defender's frame.  

Size

9

Has struggled with his weight (335 lbs) at times, but seems to be in control now. 

Health

9

Started 14 games at right tackle, missing time with nagging injuries. 

Overall

76

Once considered a draft bust (chosen sixth overall out of Alabama), Smith has turned a corner and is becoming one of the more complete tackles in the game. He can improve his technique to be ranked higher. 

 

Agility

8

Solder is quick off the ball and moves fast with balance.  

Pass Block, Speed

8.5

Able to set up and slide laterally to stop speed-rushers. Rookie season indicates he could take off in this area, thanks to his athletic ability and reach.

Pass Block, Power

7.5

Has the strength to stand-up power-rushers. Good arm length helps him lock his arms on the inside and pin defenders.  

Run Blocking

7.5

Does a great job keeping his feet churning through blocks and staying in front of the play. He maintains good pad level and smart leverage. Would score much higher if more consistent.  

Move in Space

7

Shows good range on pass protection. Can quickly get to the corner. Has the feet to mirror defenders at the line of scrimmage. 

Pull/Trap

7

Can get out and lead on sweeps and tosses. Does a good job walling off defenders on the backside of the play. Will stretch and get to linebackers.  

Strength

7

He doesn't show great field strength when locking on with defenders. Would like to see stronger hands as well. Will improve after full NFL offseason. 

Technique

6

Pretty raw, but was still impressive in his first season considering he played both left and right tackle. Needs to chop his feet better and perfect his punching location. 

Size

10

Tall (6'8") and relatively lean (319 lbs). 

Health

8

Missed two games in 2011 and appeared regularly on the injury report. 

Overall

76.5

One of the brightest young tackles. If Solder had finished the season healthy, he would be ranked even higher. We'll be talking about him for a long time. 

Agility

Excellent burst off the line, but Strief doesn't have the lateral quickness or balance of an elite tackle.  

Pass Block, Speed

Has great burst and can quickly get set up and punch pass-rushers. He's good at reaching the corner, but not great. 

Pass Block, Power

Works well in tight spaces against power-rushers. Is much more comfortable working in close quarters than in space.  

Run Blocking

Does an excellent job locking on defenders and driving off the ball. Is quick out of the snap and stuns defenders with a quick hit. Sets up blocks well by shading defenders out of the hole.  

Move in Space

Can be slow and awkward getting to the corner. Just average ability on screens.  

Pull/Trap

Is smart and takes good angles, but has never been quick enough to get out in front and lead downfield. 

Strength

Good strength with a strong base and thick, solid legs. 

Technique

Just two penalties in 11 games. A natural knee-bender who is patient and strong at the point of attack. 

Size

Is tall and long with a big, solid base and thick legs—6'7", 320.  

Health

Played in just 11 games.   

Overall

Not a long-term answer at right tackle perhaps, but Strief was a top-10 tackle in 2011, his sixth season. He complements Drew Brees' style of play, with its quick sets and speedy delivery.
 

Agility

Oher has decent agility. Doesn't possess great body control or quickness. Can struggle to keep his balance when coming out of a three-point stance. 

Pass Block, Speed

Has good range and shows the quickness needed to take the 45-degree angle and blow up the corner. Is inconsistent here and can be late getting to the edge. 

Pass Block, Power

Is strong enough and has the right technique to be effective against power moves. Will struggle with counters and stunts off the line.  

Run Blocking

Can get his pads low and drive off the ball. Has played both left and right tackle and has good technique on both sides. 

Move in Space

A pretty solid athlete. Can be stiff coming out of his stance but does get out in front of plays and can be used on screen packages with good results. 

Pull/Trap

Moves well going left or right. Has no issues getting to space. Would like to see him show more strength when blocking on the move. Needs to reduce his penalties.  

Strength

At 6'4", 315, Oher is a massive tackle with superior lower-body strength. Great bubble (i.e., big rear and thighs) and can really sit down to stonewall rushers or build momentum for a drive block.  

Technique

Oher had 10 penalties in 2011, a sign of poor technique.  

Size

Has the ideal height, length and bulk for the position.  

Health

No injury issues. 

Overall

A well-known player more for the movie and book Blind Side than his play, Oher, after three seasons, has next-world potential but hasn't settled into one position yet. Would benefit from continuity in his position. 

Agility

Smith is a great overall athlete with quick feet and excellent balance. Would like to see him play under more control. Could make the switch to left tackle. 

Pass Block, Speed

Has long arms and a big stride. Is able to take two shuffle steps and get to the corner to meet defenders. Doesn't get fooled into taking outside bait. A smart player as a rookie in 2011. 

Pass Block, Power

Smith did give up eight sacks in 2011, most of them coming when he lost his hold on pass-rushers. He has to get stronger and hold his ground longer. Other than that handful of plays, he was exceptional.  

Run Blocking

Has a mean streak and will lock on and drive tacklers out of the play. Is good at chipping and getting to the next level on weak-side runs.   

Move in Space

Moves very well at 6'5", 311. Has light feet and a good lateral move. Could come out lower in his stance to improve blocks downfield.   

Pull/Trap

Doesn't play great under his pads. Lacks the experience to efficiently move and locate targets.  

Strength

Good strength with a strong base and the proper bulk. Would be graded higher if he showed a better understanding of using his strength in pass protection.

Technique

Still a work in progress, but he has quick hands and reflexes. A natural knee-bender who is patient and strong at the point of attack. Keeps his head on a swivel and shows the ability to extend and pick up the edge.   

Size

Ideal height, bulk and length.  

Health

Started every game in his rookie season. 

Overall

One of the more promising tackles in the game today, Smith has the athletic ability to make the move to the left side and still be an elite player. Had a Pro Bowl-caliber season. 

Agility

Vollmer's burst off the ball is impressive. Has the footwork to be effective as a zone-blocker. 

Pass Block, Speed

Can get to the corner to cut off pass-rushers, but isn't always under control and balanced. Three-year veteran can improve in this area with more experience.  

Pass Block, Power

Works very well in a window and gets the knee bend and leverage to handle power rushers and inside blitzes.  

Run Blocking

Is a smart, savvy run-blocker who does a good job kicking out ends and getting the hook on outside players. Can move to his left or right without a drop-off in production. 

Move in Space

Above average at clearing out at the first level and then looking to get downfield. Is used on a number of plays that ask him to block in space. Often leads the way on screen packages.

Pull/Trap

Is able to get out in front of the run and lead-block. Is quick enough to pull and create holes for the back. Combination of quickness and strength is dangerous.   

Strength

Is strong enough to control the line of scrimmage. Would have a higher score if he showed more consistency. 

Technique

Penalized just once in his six starts this season. Vollmer has clean technique and doesn't make mistakes. 

Size

Ideal size (6'8", 315). He's tall with long arms and big, thick hands.   

Health

Has missed 10 games in three seasons due to injury.  

Overall

Vollmer has elite potential, but he has to stay healthy first. If he does that, he could top the 2012 list of the best right tackles. 

Agility

Stewart does a good job making up ground with long arms and legs. Is able to reach the edge to punch pass-rushers off balance. Has quick feet and a big, long stride.  

Pass Block, Speed

Has the length to take one kick step and easily reach the edge. He has big, strong hands and can redirect or mirror speed-rushers with quick, choppy feet.  

Pass Block, Power

Is known for his ability to dig in his heels and thwart the bull rush. He's impossible to move once he locks on.  

Run Blocking

Struggled late in 2011 to open holes and get the right leverage and hand placement to maintain lanes. Playing on the edge, he's not getting the right angle to turn defenders. 

Move in Space

Has long legs and can be a bit off balance when moving laterally. Would like to see him sink his weight and chop his feet more. 

Pull/Trap

Stewart can struggle to get moving, as doesn't have the elite agility of smaller tackles. 

Strength

Has shown he can handle a strong punch. Stays stationary in his set and is strong enough to maintain his leverage.   

Technique

Penalized just twice in '01. Stewart has textbook technique. 

Size

He's 6'7" and plays stronger than his 315 lbs.

Health

Missed one start in 2011, but quickly recovered. 

Overall

You could make a good argument for Stewart as the best pass-blocking right tackle in the NFL. He comes in at No. 4 mostly because of his lack of dominance in the run game. 

 

Agility

8

Clabo is not an elite athlete at the position, but he has enough agility to drive off the edge when run blocking and to quickly kick out to pick up pass-rushers turning the corner. 

Pass Block, Speed

10

Has great quickness in and out of his stance and is the best in the league at getting to the corner out of his stance and hitting edge-rushers taking a wide angle to the quarterback.  

Pass Block, Power

9.5

Has the strength to stand toe-to-toe and wall off power-rushers, but also does a great job playing with the leverage needed to get inside the pads of bigger, stronger defenders. 

Run Blocking

9.5

Clabo does a great job getting out in the run game. Is able to work as a lead-blocker, or as a pulling player on power schemes. 

Move in Space

8

Has a long stride and quick feet, allowing him to make up ground when working to get to the second level to attack linebackers.  

Pull/Trap

8

Is asked pull on stretch plays and will lock on defenders and drive. Has the agility to be used pulling both right and left. Good vision.  

Strength

9

Has elite strength for the position. Great upper-body strength with strong hands and arms to punch at pass-rushers.  

Technique

9

Is very clean in his stance and in his kick steps. Smooth and athletic. Does a good job getting and maintaining leverage.   

Size

8

At 6'7" is taller than most tackles. This can be an issue on a team with a shorter quarterback, but also because taller tackles are usually more stiff in the run game and can struggle to get leverage to drive block.  

Health

10

No injury issues. 

Overall

89

Among the best at the right tackle position, Clabo is finally being recognized nationally. He's top tier when it comes to run blocking and pass protecting.  

Agility

Bulaga is great in short spaces. He has exceptional lateral agility and quickness. His footwork, from speed to balance, is perfect. Could make a move to left tackle with his agility.

Pass Block, Speed

Has the quickness to beat pass-rushers to the corner and then knock them off balance. He has the length to knock speed-rushers off balance and the strength to finish them once he locks on.  

Pass Block, Power

Excels at setting his feet and dropping his weight to stop oncoming bull-rushers. He's thick enough to handle a strong rush and uses the right leverage and technique to wall off rushers.  

Run Blocking

Does a great job getting out in the run game. Is able to work as a lead-blocker and can even show some ability on stretch and zone plays.  

Move in Space

Can get to the second level and has the quickness to be a lead-blocker on the edge. He has elite footwork to get through traffic every time but can get off balance. 

Pull/Trap

Is among the faster tackles in the NFL. Shows good vision, good agility and a natural smoothness to his movements. He's able to drive block defenders while on the move.   

Strength

Could be stronger, but has good functional strength for a player of his build and make-up.  

Technique

A true knee-bender who will drop his weight and keep his balance and form through a block. Smooth hand placement and great leverage. Gets a little high at times, and will throws his hands outside the numbers.  

Size

Bulaga has the look of a left tackle at 6'5", 314 lbs. He's tall, lean and strong throughout. 

Health

Missed four games because of injury in 2011. He's struggled to stay on the field.  

Overall

There is a lot to like about this second-year tackle. Bulaga may eventually move to left tackle based on his athleticism and blocking ability. 

Agility

10

A college left tackle and converted tight end, Winston is able to reach edge-rushers with quick footwork and exceptional balance. Has the agility to get to the edge on runs and to the corner on passes.

Pass Block, Speed

9

Kills with quickness. Can take the big kick step and get to far-reaching pass-rushers trying to turn the corner. He has great quickness in and out of his stance and is the best in the league at getting into defenders off the snap.

Pass Block, Power

9

Stops most power-rushers in their tracks with his strength, and knows how to use leverage against anyone stronger than he is.   

Run Blocking

9

A very good lead-blocker in Houston's zone scheme. He's quick, powerful and has a strong grasp of what angles to take and where to lock on.  

Move in Space

8.5

Is very quick off the ball with good footwork and agility to move laterally to his left or right.    

Pull/Trap

9

Is able to get out in front of the play and make impact blocks downfield. Has the agility and speed to be a lead-blocker off the edge.  

Strength

9

Can get dirty in the run game by pancaking defenders off the ball.   

Technique

8

Would like to see fewer penalties, which means keeping his hands inside. Or at least hiding it better. Otherwise, he's exceptional. 

Size

10

Has excellent size at 6'7", 302 lbs, especially for the quick-blocking scheme he is in. 

Health

10

No injury issues. 

Overall

91.5

One of the best tackles in the NFL, Winston amazes with a complete game. He grades out exceptionally well as both a run-blocker and pass-protector. It's a shame he was ignored by the Pro Bowl for the 2011 season.