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2008 NFL draft: Offensive tackles

This year's tackle class is as deep as it has been in years. There are four sure-fire first rounders, with a couple of others who could legitimately slip in the later half. Good tackles are hard to come by and teams will pay a premium even for adequate ones, this could be the year for a number of teams to locate their tackles of the future.

1) Ryan Clady- Boise State: 6-6, 315

What the scouts are saying:
Clady has ideal size, strength and athleticism for a tackle prospect. He is viewed as a top notch blocker in both the passing and ground game. However, isn't a road grader and isn't as intense as most scouts like. Has the speed to get off the snap fast and move downfield to attack secondary targets. Was a three year starter, so has plenty of experience. Was a highly respected player and leader on and off the field.

My Dish:
Yeah yeah, Miami is looking at making Jake Long the number one pick over all, but mark my word; Clady will be the better pro. He should be able to start from day one, but he'll take some lumps as he transitions into the pros. Boise St. doesn't run a pro-style offense and plays a lot of lower level schools, so the learning curve will be greater then some of the others, but he'll be worth the first round investment.

1) Jake Long- Michigan: 6-7, 315

What the scouts are saying:
Long is a tough, physical player whose real strength lies in run blocking. He is more than adequate in pass blocking, but will occasionally struggle with speed rushers. Is very quick off the snap and is absolutely devastating when asked to block downfield. Is a consummate team player who will work hard to improve his game. More then one scout questions his ability to play the left side, which could impact his value.

My Dish:
Long appears headed to Miami, and who can really blame them. They know exactly what they are getting in Long. He's the type of guy you want on you team and, barring injury, will lock up one of their two tackle spots for the next decade or so. Michigan has put out a large number of Pro-Bowl caliber players, expect Long to keep that tradition alive.

2) Jeff Otah- Pittsburg: 6-6, 340

What the scouts are saying:
Otah is another prospect who brings ideal size to the table. He's a devastating run blocker, but is unpolished in the passing game. He ran slowly for a lineman, which has caused his stock to stumble a bit. He'll struggle at times against speed rushers and doesn't posses natural agility. Is raw but is considered a


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2008 NFL draft: Offensive tackles

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    by Jon Hovland

    This year's tackle class is as deep as it has been in years. There are four sure-fire first rounders, with a couple o... read more

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