2024 NFL Draft Scouting Report: Patrick Paul

Prospect Summary:

Over the past three seasons, Paul was a steady left tackle for the Cougars. The massive blocker turned into a reliable pass protector and was a steady contributor. Paul then had respectable performances at the Senior Bowl and the 2024 NFL Scouting Combine.

For the passing game, Paul is a massive blocker with height, length, and quick-enough feet that make him difficult for edge rushers to run around. Despite being a massive edge protector, Paul has quality feet and length to neutralize speed rushes, showing an impressive ability to get depth in his drop. He does a nice job of keeping his feet moving and is able to play the typewriter while gliding with edge rushers.

Entering the NFL, Paul is a better pass protector than run blocker, but he has issues to clean up in protection. Paul exposes his chest too much and can play too high. Those things make him susceptible to getting walked backward into the quarterback by speed-to-power rushes and bull rushes. Paul needs to improve his hand placement and his ability to bend at the knee, plus sink his weight better and not expose his chest.

In the ground game, Paul needs improvement for the NFL because he is not powerful despite being so massive. Paul ties up and stalls defenders with his size and length, but he is not a bull who will blast lineman off the ball. Paul would fit best in a zone-blocking scheme at the next level.

In the 2024 NFL Draft, Paul looks like a potential second-day pick, and in time, he could become a starter. Paul really could use a redshirt season as a rookie during which he develops his strength and technique before being ready to be a possible starter. Paul has athletic upside and size that can’t be coached. If he works hard, he could become a quality NFL starter.