Top three draft-eligible offensive tackles in the Big Ten
It is never too early to talk about the NFL Draft and one of the most polarizing and fun positions to discuss is the offensive tackle position. The Ohio State football program has a reputation for pumping out some talented offensive tackles. In recent memory, we’ve seen guys like Nicholas Petit-Frere, Taylor Decker, and Jack Mewhort, but the Big Ten as a whole can produce bookends.
Northwestern is projected to be a work in progress this season, but it also has a strong history of producing offensive tackle talents like Rashawn Slater, Trai Essex, and Chris Hinton. It is always fun to check out the conference’s history, but let’s see who are the most likely to hear their name called early next year.
Paris Johnson Jr, Ohio State, 6-foot, 6-inches, 315-pounds
Ohio State Buckeyes offensive lineman Paris Johnson Jr. (77) warms up during a spring football practice at the Woody Hayes Athletics Center in Columbus on March 22, 2022.
Ncaa Football Ohio State Spring Practice
Paris Johnson Jr. started at guard last season, but he is projected to start at tackle this season and his NFL projection is at tackle as well. Johnson is an elite pass blocker and it is easy to see why he is projected to be a first-rounder.
I think Paris Johnson Jr (RG 77) was the best OL for OSU last season pic.twitter.com/8K41VbhJlm
— Draft Guy Jared (@DraftGuyJared) July 20, 2022
Peter Skoronski, Northwestern, 6-foot, 4-inches, 294-pounds
EVANSTON, ILLINOIS – DECEMBER 12: Peter Skoronski #77 of the Northwestern Wildcats blocks Isaiah Gay #92 of the Illinois Fighting Illini at Ryan Field on December 12, 2020, in Evanston, Illinois. (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)
Some rankings have Peter Skoronski higher than Johnson and that is based mostly on his insanely advanced technique and his elite run blocking ability. Skoronski looks like another first-round lock and may have the same impact as Rashawn Slater in the NFL.
If the #Bears get an offensive lineman in Round 1 of the 2023 draft, I’d be ecstatic with Northwestern LT Peter Skoronski.
Not sure if he’s a OT or OG at the next level, but his footwork and technique are top notch. Super smart player with athleticism. pic.twitter.com/L3GVuZh09Q
— Jacob Infante (@jacobinfante24) May 9, 2022
Ryan Hayes, Michigan, 6-foot, 7-inches, 307-pounds
Ryan Hayes blocks against T.J. Guy during the Michigan spring game on April 2, 2022, at Michigan Stadium in Ann Arbor. Credit: USA TODAY Sports Network
Ryan Hayes is extremely underrated and hasn’t received enough hype for how great he has been in his two years starting at left tackle. Hayes will be looking to make a push for the first round as well.
3rd down & 2 on the opening drive.
I really liked the way Michigan played the numbers advantage yesterday. And Ohio State couldn't stop it.
Haskins for 8.
76 Ryan Hayes with a great block on the LB. pic.twitter.com/jDIPEfCKSg— Due# (@JDue51) November 28, 2021
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