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Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Matt Kalil (USC) - 2012 NFL Draft Pick #4 by MIN

What The Experts Thought Before The Draft

Pre-Draft Analysis for Matt Kalil (2012 NFL Draft)

Player Profile:
  • Name: Matt Kalil
  • Position: Offensive Tackle
  • College: University of Southern California (USC)
  • Height: 6'6"
  • Weight: 308 lbs
Overview:

Matt Kalil was widely regarded as one of the top prospects in the 2012 NFL Draft. His combination of size, athleticism, and technique made him a coveted offensive tackle. Coming from a prestigious program at USC, Kalil had experience against high-level competition, which bolstered his draft stock.

Strengths:
  • Physical Attributes: Kalil possessed ideal height and weight for an NFL offensive tackle, along with long arms that helped him in pass protection.
  • Footwork: He demonstrated excellent footwork, allowing him to slide effectively to protect the quarterback's blind side.
  • Pass Protection: Kalil was particularly noted for his ability to anchor against powerful defensive linemen and maintain balance while protecting the passer.
  • Run Blocking: He showcased the ability to move defenders off the ball, making him a valuable asset in both the run and pass game.
Weaknesses:
  • Injury Concerns: There were some concerns regarding his injury history, particularly a hip issue that could have raised red flags for some teams.
  • Consistency: While he displayed elite talent, there were moments where his performance dipped, leading to questions about his consistency at the highest level.
Overall Assessment:

Matt Kalil was projected to be a top-5 pick in the 2012 NFL Draft, with many analysts citing him as the best offensive tackle in the class. His skill set and experience made him a franchise cornerstone for any team in need of help on the offensive line. Teams looking for a reliable protector for their quarterback saw Kalil as an instant starter with Pro Bowl potential.