It's no secret that the Dallas Cowboys could use some help along the offensive line. Especially at tackle, where the play of Marc Colombo fell off dramatically from previous seasons. The Cowboys have the #9 pick in the 2011 Draft, and almost certainly have offensive tackle on their radar. Our own rabblerousr summed up some of the options the Cowboys have as to their draft strategy and securing a top-line tackle in this post.
So who has stood out at tackle so far at the combine?
Make the jump...
A few offensive tackles made a very strong showing in their drills, at least according to Bucky Brooks over at NFL.com.
Nate Solder, OT, Colorado Solder was rated as one of the top offensive tackles on most boards prior to the event, but his dazzling display of athleticism will force evaluators to reconsider his standing on their boards. At 6-foot-8 ¼ and 319 pounds, he posted a 5.05 time in the 40-yard dash, and recorded impressive numbers in the broad (9-2) and vertical jumps (32 inches). More impressively, his times in the short shuttle (4.34 seconds) and three-cone drill (7.44) would rank with some skill positions. He capped the workout by looking smooth and polished in individual drills. He effortlessly changes directions laterally and showed good body control while kick-sliding out of his stance.
Anthony Castonzo, OT, Boston College Castonzo is vying for the top spot at the position, and his stellar workout only solidified his status among the elite. He posted the best short shuttle time (4.40) at the position and showed better-than-anticipated lateral quickness and agility in position drills. His balance and body control were outstanding in individual drills, and his technique was sound in all aspects. Although he is close to his ceiling as a player, his skill set is ready-made for the pro game.
And for pure bravado, nobody beats Gabe Carimi of Wisconsin.
In regards to the offensive tackle crop, [Gabe] Carimi was the buzz word today. The media floor was enamored with the kid's confidence, which could never be mistaken for lacking. As Carimi himself said: "I'm the best tackle out there, so I'm gonna play like it and act like it...I know I can play right away...I'm a draft-ready tackle." Carimi certainly looks the part. It's easy to understand why so many were impressed with him, and apparently that number is going to continue to rise as a growing number of former dissenters are now projecting him as left tackle-capable as opposed to some original estimations that he could only hold down the fort on the right side. Critics are starting to concede his athleticism, previously questioned.