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Laken Tomlinson (Duke) - 2015 NFL Draft Pick #28 by DET

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Pre-Draft Analysis for Laken Tomlinson (Duke) - 2015 NFL Draft

Overview:

Laken Tomlinson was a standout offensive lineman from Duke University, known for his strength, technique, and versatility on the field. He was highly regarded leading up to the 2015 NFL Draft, with many analysts projecting him as a top interior offensive lineman.

Strengths:

• Physicality: Tomlinson is known for his powerful frame and ability to overpower defenders at the point of attack.
• Footwork: His footwork is solid, allowing him to maintain balance and control while engaging with defenders.
• Pass Protection: He showcases good technique in pass protection, demonstrating the ability to anchor against bull rushes and redirect quicker defenders.
• Run Blocking: Tomlinson has a strong ability to create running lanes, making him an asset in the running game.
• Experience: With multiple starts in college, he brought significant experience and maturity to the position.

Weaknesses:

• Consistency: While he has moments of brilliance, there were concerns regarding his consistency over the duration of games.
• Mobility: Although he is effective in short spaces, his lateral mobility could be a concern against faster, athletic defensive linemen.
• Injury History: Teams might need to evaluate his injury history and how it may impact his durability in the NFL.

Pro Comparison:

Many analysts compared Tomlinson to players like Kevin Zeitler and Zack Martin, both of whom have successfully transitioned to the NFL and made significant impacts on their respective teams.

Draft Projection:

Tomlinson was projected to be selected in the first or second round of the 2015 NFL Draft, with teams looking to bolster their offensive line through his skill set and experience.