2011 NFL Draft: Possible Patriots Prospect OT Tyron Smith

The New England Patriots have two draft picks in the first round. In many of the recent mock drafts, it has the Patriots selecting either some sort of pass rusher or an offensive lineman. 

One of the names that has been floating around New England in recent mock drafts is USC offensive tackle Tyron Smith. 

Tyron Smith

Height: 6-foot-5

Weight: 280 pounds

Position: Offensive tackle

Current Projection: Late first-round to early second. 

NOTE: This article was first seen at PatriotsPlus.net.

Be sure to follow Tony Santorsa on Twitter @   TonySantorsa.

Run Blocking

In Smith's junior year, first year being a starter, he played under Peter Carroll's zone blocking scheme, which doesn't require Smith to always have his own distinct man. 

However, in his senior year, he played in Lane Kiffin's pro-style offense, and faired very well. 

Smith has a tall and long frame and is exceptionally quick. He is very quick and explosive at the snap off the ball, but might struggle driving opposing defenders.

With Smith's large frame, he has a lot of potential to gain more muscle mass, which will help him along the way in his professional career. 

Pass Blocking

Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images

LOS ANGELES, CA - SEPTEMBER 26: Quarterback Matt Barkley #7 of the USC Trojans throws a pass as Tyron Smith #70 blocks Jesse Feagin #98 of the Washington State Cougars during the second quarter of the college football game at the Los Angeles Memorial C

Smith is one of the top pass blockers in this year's draft and can keep up with almost anyone. 

With his excellent athleticism, Smith has no problems sliding from side to side with his great footwork. 

Because of his solid foot work, he gets off of the ball quick to gain proper protection. Also, with his long-arms, he has great extension and can keep pass rushers away. 

Smith excels when he goes against speed rushers because his speed can match just about anyone. 

Strength

The only major knock against Smith is his strength and power.

Reportedly, Smith gained a total of 20 pounds in muscle mass in his years at USC. Despite gaining 20 pounds, he still needs to put on more muscle.

The good news about Smith is that he's got a large frame being 6-foot-5, and has a lot of room to put on muscle.

All reports about Smith is that he's a hard-worker in the weight room, and will add more weight as he enters his professional career.  

Quickness

Ronald Martinez/Getty Images

ARLINGTON, TX - AUGUST 11: Tyron Smith #77 of the Dallas Cowboys at Cowboys Stadium on August 11, 2011 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)

Along with his long arm extension, Smith's speed is one of his major attributes. 

Smith is extremely quick off of the ball, and can put himself in better position against rushing defenders. 

Because of his speed and quickness, it puts him much ahead of the majority of all offensive linemen in the draft.