Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Joaquin Gonzalez (Miami (FL)) - 2002 NFL Draft Pick #227 by CLE

---

Pre-Draft Analysis for Joaquin Gonzalez - 2002 NFL Draft

Position: Offensive Tackle
College: University of Miami (FL)
Height: 6'6"
Weight: 310 lbs

Overview

Joaquin Gonzalez was a standout offensive tackle from the University of Miami, known for his size, agility, and technical skills. As a key contributor to one of the nation's top college football programs, he showcased the ability to protect the quarterback and create running lanes for the running game.

Strengths

• Size and Strength: At 6'6" and 310 lbs, Gonzalez possesses the ideal frame for an NFL offensive tackle. His size enables him to hold his ground against powerful defensive linemen.
• Footwork: Gonzalez demonstrated excellent footwork in pass protection, allowing him to quickly adjust to speed rushers and maintain balance.
• Experience: With multiple seasons as a starter at Miami, he has faced elite college competition, which should ease his transition to the NFL.
• Technique: He displayed solid hand placement and leverage, making him effective in both pass blocking and run blocking scenarios.

Weaknesses

• Injury Concerns: Gonzalez had some history of injuries during his college career, which may raise questions about his durability at the professional level.
• Consistency: While he showed flashes of brilliance, there were games where he struggled against top-tier defensive ends, leading to concerns about his performance against elite talent in the NFL.

Projected Draft Position

Gonzalez was projected to be a mid-round selection in the 2002 NFL Draft. Teams were attracted to his physical attributes and potential but were cautious due to his inconsistency and injury history.

Conclusion

Joaquin Gonzalez had the tools to become a solid contributor at the NFL level. If he could address his weaknesses and continue to develop his technique, he had the potential to be a reliable starting tackle for years to come.