Commentary

2019 NFL Draft: Alabama State OT Tytus Howard

If the Los Angeles Rams opt to move Joseph Noteboom to starting guard, they will need depth at tackle. Andrew Whitworth is returning but will also be another year older. With that in mind, it’s easy to see why the Rams would host Alabama State’s Tytus Howard for a pre-draft visit.

College stats and honors:

  • Made the 2019 Senior Bowl roster.
  • Became one of the first players from Alabama State to receive an invite to the NFL Combine in over a decade.
  • Began his collegiate career as a TE and did adjust well to offensive tackle.

Strengths:

It’s interesting seeing Howard in his freshman year and comparing his body to this year. As of now, Howard stands at 6’5″ and weighing in at about 322 pounds. That’s exactly the size you want to see from a tackle. His flexibility is especially intriguing since he tends to have plenty of bend. Howard did extremely well in screen plays, which is something the Rams could use.

Howard certainly possesses enough quickness and speed for the next level. He’s capable of blocking even the quicker defenders and keep them at bay. His NFL Combine numbers aren’t the flashiest, but they are decent. He did run the 40-yard dash in 5.05 seconds, which is okay for an offensive tackle.

Weaknesses:

While Howard my have the ideal size, he’s the epitome of a project player. He’s raw in most aspects of the game. The most frustrating thing about Howard is watching him waste what should be an advantage. Forgetting to use his incredibly long arms is an insult to himself. Part of the issue is his awful use of hand placement. While this may be coachable, it’s one of the reasons he isn’t given a higher rating.

Howard is huge, sadly, this doesn’t mean he’s strong. It’s not too hard to believe considering he grew considerably into his frame. He will likely need to live in the weight room his first couple of years in the NFL. While he’s at it, he may want to consider working on his technique.

Projected draft round:

By now it’s clear that Howard needs a ton of work. That said, the reward may be worth it if works hard. One thing to credit Howard with is his work ethic. If teams are willing to coach him up, Howard may be worth this minimal risk. The potential is there, but teams must be patient and also must have a current solution.

In regards to the Rams, he may fit into the most ideal situation. Consider this, the Rams are currently relying on veteran Andrew Whitworth. He will give the Rams an answer at left tackle for the next few years. In the meantime, the Rams could train Howard and he can learn from Whitworth. To draft Howard will likely cost a team a third round draft pick. Good thing the Rams have two third round picks.

Source: Bamastatesports.com

You can follow Johnny Gomez on Twitter @Johnny5not6. Be sure to follow Rams Talk on Twitter @TalkRams.

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