John Theus NFL Draft 2016: Scouting Report, Grade for 49ers Rookie

POSITIVES

A starter at right tackle coming right out of high school, John Theus moved to left tackle for the 2014 and 2015 seasons. His strength, versatility and production in the SEC all combine to make him a draftable prospect.

Theus looks the part at tackle with good length, big, strong hands and the athleticism to seal off the edge and reach linebackers. The fact that Theus started for four seasons has him prepared for life in the NFL, and some of the holes he opened for Todd Gurley, Keith Marshall and Nick Chubb were ridiculous. He’s able to get his hands on a defenders and ride them out of the play in the run game and uses those same strong hands to win in pass protection.

Theus is aware and instinctive when coiled up in his pass set. He plays with good quickness to catch countermoves and can slide his feet to adjust to speed or power. He has the strength to sit down and anchor a bull rush.

Theus projects as a mid-rounder, but don’t rule out early playing time for him. His technique is refined for a rookie prospect.

NEGATIVES

Inconsistency is the major negative on Theus’ scouting report. He has a string of plays where he looks like a Round 2 prospect, but then he’ll struggle to move his feet and redirect pass-rushers while looking uncoordinated and unbalanced. Finding harmony in his movements will be a key for Theus.

Something that popped up often on film was Theus watching the play—and usually watching it with his back turned. You want Theus to be much better as a finisher, and it’s frustrating because he shows that ability; it’s just not consistent. It may sound impossible, but Theus is the softest tough dude in this tackle class. He looks like The Hulk one play and Bruce Banner the next.

Learning technique will be the hurdle to get Theus in a lineup early. Coaches can teach him to finish blocks better, but things like proper stepping in zone blocks and getting the right angle when firing out to spring the run game will ultimately decide when he can play. The baseline athleticism is there; he only needs polished.

COMBINE RESULTS

Height: 6'6"

Weight: 313 lbs.

40 Time: 5.22s

Arm Length: 34 ½"

3-Cone: 7.90s

Short Shuttle: 4.78s

PRO COMPARISON: Rob Havenstein, Los Angeles Rams
FINAL GRADE: 5.70/9.00 (Round 4—Backup Caliber)