Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Alex Leatherwood (Alabama) - 2021 NFL Draft Pick #17 by LV

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Pre-Draft Analysis for Alex Leatherwood (2021 NFL Draft)

Position: Offensive Tackle
College: Alabama
Height: 6'5"
Weight: 312 lbs

Overview

Alex Leatherwood was a highly regarded offensive lineman coming out of the University of Alabama. Known for his versatility and experience in a top-tier college program, Leatherwood showcased his skills in both pass protection and run blocking during his time with the Crimson Tide.

Strengths

• Physicality: Leatherwood is a powerful and aggressive player who thrives in both run blocking and pass protection.
• Versatile Experience: He played multiple positions along the offensive line, primarily left tackle, which adds to his value.
• Footwork: His footwork is impressive, allowing him to mirror defenders and maintain balance in various situations.
• Football IQ: Leatherwood demonstrates a solid understanding of defensive schemes, which helps him anticipate and react to opponents' moves.

Weaknesses

• Inconsistency: At times, Leatherwood has struggled with consistency in his technique, leading to penalties and missed assignments.
• Length: While he has solid size, some evaluators noted that he could benefit from longer arms to better handle speed rushers.
• Adjustment to NFL Speed: There are concerns about how quickly he can adjust to the speed and complexity of the NFL game.

Draft Projection

Leatherwood was projected to be a first-round pick in the 2021 NFL Draft due to his skill set and performance at Alabama. Teams looking for an offensive tackle to solidify their line would likely be interested in his combination of physicality and experience.

Conclusion

Alex Leatherwood was viewed as a strong candidate to make an immediate impact in the NFL. His background at Alabama, combined with his physical attributes and work ethic, positioned him as a valuable asset for NFL teams seeking to bolster their offensive line.