Antonio Richardson, Junior, Offensive Tackle, Tennessee
Overview:
After playing on special teams as a freshman in 2011, Antonio Richardson made the move to Tennessee’s starting left tackle in 2012. He displaced Dallas Thomas and forced him to move inside to the guard position, which says a lot about how talented Richardson is. Thomas ended his collegiate career being selected in the third round of the 2013 NFL Draft. Richardson should again get the best of Thomas when it comes to draft position.
Richardson did not just win the left tackle job; he did a great job once he got there. The Volunteers offensive line allowed a mere eight sacks during the entire 2012 campaign. And it is not like Tennessee did not drop back to pass a lot with Tyler Bray under center. Nor is Bray a particularly mobile quarterback. Richardson was also one of the few tackles who was able to contain Jadevon Clowney.
Final Projection:
At 6-6 and 327 pounds, Richardson looks like an NFL left tackle. He has solid footwork and more than enough strength to fight off the best pass rushers in college football. With all of that potential, Richardson could quickly turn into the top tackle in this class. That would make him a top five selection. Of course Richardson still has a lot to prove to get to that point, but he could use the 2014 campaign to prove it as well if 2013 does not go as planned.
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