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Matt Goncalves (Pittsburgh) - 2024 NFL Draft Pick #79 by IND

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Pre-Draft Analysis for Matt Goncalves - 2024 NFL Draft

Position: Offensive Tackle
College: University of Pittsburgh

Overview

Matt Goncalves has emerged as one of the top offensive tackle prospects in the 2024 NFL Draft. Known for his impressive size, athleticism, and technique, Goncalves has been a cornerstone for the offensive line at Pittsburgh, showcasing his ability to protect the quarterback and open up running lanes.

Physical Attributes

• Height: 6'6"
• Weight: 310 lbs
• Arm Length: 34 inches
• Hand Size: 10 inches

Strengths

• Pass Protection: Exhibits excellent footwork and balance, allowing him to anchor against powerful edge rushers.
• Run Blocking: Utilizes strong hands and good leverage to drive defenders off the line, creating space for running backs.
• Football IQ: Shows a high level of awareness and understanding of defensive schemes, making adjustments on the fly.
• Durability: Has demonstrated consistent availability throughout his college career, with minimal injury concerns.

Areas for Improvement

• Consistency: Needs to work on maintaining a high level of performance across all games, as there have been moments of inconsistency.
• Hand Placement: While his strength is a plus, improving hand placement can help him disengage from defenders more effectively.
• Speed on Outside Runs: Could improve his lateral quickness to better handle quicker edge rushers in the NFL.

Pro Comparison

Many analysts have compared Goncalves to Rashawn Slater due to his blend of size, athleticism, and technique. Both players have shown the ability to excel in both pass protection and run blocking, making them valuable assets on any offensive line.

Draft Projection

As the 2024 NFL Draft approaches, Matt Goncalves is projected to be selected in the early to mid-second round. His combination of skill set, physical attributes, and experience make him a promising candidate for teams looking to bolster their offensive line.

Conclusion

Matt Goncalves is a player to watch in the upcoming NFL Draft. With his solid foundation and potential for growth, he could quickly become a starter and a key contributor at the professional level.