Weaknesses:
Summary: The consensus second-rated offensive tackle in the 2012 NFL Draft is a well-rounded prospect. Reiff is a good athlete who is a dependable pass protector and a quality run blocker. Reiff was clearly well coached at Iowa, and he enters the NFL with the ability to be a high level technician at left tackle.
In the pass-driven NFL, teams need reliable blind-side protectors, and Reiff fits the bill. He has quick feet and mirrors speed rushers well. He has good knee bend that allows him to maintain leverage against defensive linemen. Reiff has enough strength and weight in his base to anchor against bull rushers.
Reiff had an excellent game last season against Pitt speed-rusher Brandon Lindsey. Everything that Lindsey threw at Reiff was stopped with ease. However, Reiff allowed a sack to Pitt defensive end Aaron Donald. Against Oklahoma, Reiff faired well against pass rusher Frank Alexander. As in the Pitt contest, another defender, R.J. Washington, beat Reiff for a sack. Reiff generally was very dependable to be a good pass protector for Iowa.
Reiff is a strong run blocker who has the strength to move linemen off the line of scrimmage. He can be a drive blocker and has the mobility to hit blocks on the second level of the defense. Iowa had a strong ground game and Reiff was an essential part of it.
Reiff should be able to step in and play immediately in the NFL. It would be a good idea though to give Reiff some help against speed-rushers, as is the case with most rookies, if not veterans. It is expected that Reiff will go in the 6-13 range of the 2012 NFL Draft, and be a long-term answer at tackle for the team that takes him. Reiff also projects to have the ability play right tackle.
Player Comparison: Ryan Clady. Reiff’s game mirrors Clady. They both are nice athletes who play with good technique. Clady is a well-rounded blocker who can run block and pass block. In the 2008 NFL Draft, the Broncos took Clady with the 12th overall pick. Reiff should go in the same area.
NFL Matches: St. Louis, Miami, Carolina, Buffalo, Kansas City, Arizona
As mentioned, Reiff should go in the 6-13 range on draft day. The Rams need a left tackle, and if they miss out on Trent Richardson or Justin Blackmon, they might take Reiff with the sixth selection. The Dolphins need a right tackle, and Reiff could be the best player available at a position of need. Carolina will consider offensive tackle as Jordan Gross will finish his career before Cam Newton enters his prime. The Panthers could start Reiff at right tackle before having him replace Gross in a few years.
The Bills need tackle help and Reiff could be their guy at No. 10. The Chiefs have a huge hole at right tackle, and if they don’t sign a veteran free agent, Reiff could fill the void for Kansas City. If he some how he gets past those five teams, it would be a surprise if the Cardinals passed on him at 13. Tackle has been a weak spot for them for years, and Reiff would be an instant upgrade.
RELATED LINKS:
2012 NFL Mock Draft: Charlie’s | Walt’s
2012 NFL Draft Prospect Rankings
2012 NFL Draft Scouting Reports
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