Rod Taylor NFL Draft 2018: Scouting Report for Cincinnati Bengals' Pick

POSITIVES

—Has experience at guard and tackle in the ultra-competitive SEC. 

—Top-heavy and can use hands to be an adequate as run-blocker.

—Has decent feet to mirror athletes on the interior defensive line.

—Has experience in space as a puller and can move with purpose.

NEGATIVES

—Lacks the length (34 ¼" arms) needed to be an effective NFL tackle.

—Only one season of complete health.

—Wide striker who rounds his arms and loads up, essentially telegraphing his punch.

—Lacks legit bubble in lower body and doesn't have the weight (320 lbs) to anchor against power.

—Length issues lead him to lean and reach too often.

OVERALL

Rod Taylor has the experience NFL teams want, but his lack of length is a major concern if he's going to play tackle. Taylor's best bet is to move inside and serve as the eighth offensive lineman who can play either guard or tackle in a pinch. His ability to anchor against power opponents has to improve regardless of where he lines up and will make him a liability early in camp.

GRADE: 5.20 (Priority Free Agent)

PRO COMPARISON: Nick Easton, Minnesota Vikings