NFL Combine 2012: Analyzing Where Risky Offensive Lineman Must Improve

The offensive line remains the most important unit to any one football team, because no quarterback will dice up a defense without pocket protection.

In addition, stud running backs don't have the opportunity to break second-level tackles and burn defensive backs without the initial running lane created by good blocking.

That said, NFL Draft rankings and stock change virtually on a weekly basis. So, here's a look at some offensive lineman who need a strong combine and what must be fixed to do it.

Zebrie Sanders, Florida State

Prior to the Senior Bowl, Florida State's Zebrie Sanders was looking like a first-round lock at offensive tackle. He displayed the ability to play the right and left side for most of the 2011 season and there were high expectations in January.

Well, Sanders didn't live up to some of the hype against better competition, especially during the week of practice. His inability to keep a low center of gravity and lack of strength was exposed.

At the combine, Sanders needs to really improve his lateral footwork, consistently sinking the hips and patience before extending his arms. Make no mistake about it, he has first-round potential and proved that on more than one occasion in 2011.

But, not only did an underachieving performance at the Senior Bowl knock him down, it displayed inconsistency against quicker, faster and more agile pass rushers.

Kelechi Osemele, Iowa State

One thing that could really propel Kelechi Osemele into a starting NFL job as a rookie, is if he becomes a more consistent pass blocker.

He has the look of your ideal guard, and Iowa State had a solid 2011 season averaging almost 175 rushing yards per game. But, Osemele struggles at staying light on his feet and being more aggressive in the trenches.

Because of that, Osemele must improve at quick changes of directions and becoming more nimble. Defensive lineman or linebacker in the pros who quickly uses their hands will slip past him, meaning proving his ability to be more agile when blocking more athletic pass rushers is key.

Having solid run blocking skills is great, and makes Osemele an appealing pick. However, he'll rarely see the field, unless it's a short-yardage situation, without developing more interior-line dynamics.

Lucas Nix, Pittsburgh

Considered a late fifth-rounder but has the potential to increase stock, Lucas Nix is a lighter guard than most, though this has started to become more popular in the NFL recently.

The concern is that Nix not only had injury issues this past season but, even when healthy, lacked the ability to maintain a strong stance.

Whether against the run or pass, the more powerful and fluid defensive lineman will get him off balance before using their hands to slip past. As for the combine, Nix has to display much better acceleration and reactionary skills to moving defenders.

One of Nix's strengths is getting to linebackers and defensive backs, mainly because of effort. Still, without the consistent wherewithal to adjust his route to make a block, NFL 'backers and secondary players will evade him.

Provided that Nix can display better awareness when blocking one-on-one, he may then have an opportunity to significantly contribute in 2012.

John Rozum on Twitter.