Right Off Russell

NFL.com Draft Vignette

Position: OL
Height and Weight: 6′5″ 315lbs.
School: Mississippi

With their first pick in the NFL Draft the Ravens addressed the need to find a long term option at right tackle. The Ravens rated Oher as one of the top 15 players in this draft. The club feels they go a great value when he last until the 23rd pick. The Ravens did have to trade a 5th round pick to New England to move up from 26 to keep Oher from being selected by Buffalo.

In Oher, the Ravens have another large and physically gifted young tackle to play opposite LT Jared Gaither. Also, like Gaither, Oher has a basketball background that no doubt has helped him with his balance and footwork. Oher is stronger as a pass protector at this point in his career and will need to improve his push on run plays. Oher does have a good size in his lower body to become a capable run blocker, and he has the long arms to neutralize rushers on the edge. Oher does have the quickness and footwork to be effective pulling and in blocking for screen plays. Oher is hard nosed, very competitive and plays to the whistle.

As stated earlier, Oher does need to become more forceful at the point of attack in run blocking, but it is something he has improved at during his time at Ole Miss. Oher also only has 3 years of experience at the tackle position and non at right tackle. This could be a concern as he looks to beat out Willie Anderson for the position. Oher also needs to be able to read and adjust to outside blitzes more readily.

Much has been made of Oher’s difficulties during his childhood, as well as him being the subject of the book The Blinside by Michael Lewis, and rightfully so. Both circumstances have helped Oher mature and perhaps get a handle on being a #1 draft pick. He is a tough guy who has risen out of bleek circumstances, look for Oher to make the most of his opportunity with the Ravens.

My Grade: I really like the pick. Oher had great value at 23 and should eventually be the answer at RT. He believes he can start right away. I think the Ravens will give him the opportunity to, but I do not see them forcing him into a role he is not ready for. Willie Anderson is still serviceable and Jason Terry is there if Oher is not ready and something happens to Anderson. I give the pick and A-.