Weaknesses:
Summary: I don’t understand why Barksdale isn’t more well regarded as a 2011 NFL Draft prospect nationally, but I really don’t care. I have watched a lot of tape on the most lauded 2010 NFL Draft tackle prospects, and Barksdale’s games are easily the best. He has a very high upside and has the raw talent to be an elite left tackle in the NFL with the prototype technique to boot. He needs to prove he can man the blind side as a senior at LSU, but I think when it’s all said and done, he will at least go in the first two rounds.
I have questions with Barksdale (pure speculation on my part) because he seems to miss a block or two per game, and I’m slightly concerned about his intelligence. That said, I’m giving Barksdale a first-round grade to start the 2010 season and he’s my No. 1 offensive tackle prospect for the 2011 NFL Draft.
Player Comparison: Joe Staley. Staley and Barksdale both have the raw athleticism and high level of technique you look for in left tackles, but they are both finesse pass protectors who aren’t very powerful in the run game.
RELATED LINKS:
2011 NFL Mock Draft: Matt’s | Walt’s
2011 NFL Draft Prospect Rankings
2011 NFL Draft Scouting Reports
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