The Los Angeles Rams are facing the prospect of losing some of their offensive linemen to free agency, which has led to speculation that they may look to bolster their trenches in the upcoming NFL Draft. One potential option for them could be Patrick Paul, a standout offensive tackle from the University of Houston.
Paul, a three-year starter for the Cougars, will be 24 years old by the end of the 2024 NFL season. He had a strong season in terms of reducing the pressure he allowed and minimizing penalties. Standing at an imposing 6-foot-7 and weighing 315 pounds, Paul possesses impressive length and power for his position.
In terms of draft projections, I see Paul as a late second-round pick. He demonstrates a solid ability to set his anchor, and his kick slide covers a significant amount of ground. Additionally, he exhibits good recovery skills if initially beaten. However, I have some reservations that prevent me from labeling him as an early second-round or first-round prospect.
Paul excels in pass protection, showcasing his ability to mirror his opponents effectively. In the run game, he demonstrates his effectiveness at reaching the second level and delivering impactful blocks. His awareness and communication skills are evident, particularly when he has to call out stunts. While he may lose some reps due to technical skills and athleticism, Paul rarely loses a rep due to mental errors.
One notable aspect of Paul’s game is his ability to quickly adapt to his assignment’s pass rush plan. He demonstrates the capacity to adjust on the fly based on the information he gathers throughout the game, allowing him to rectify early mistakes.
However, there are some concerns with Paul’s game. His footwork can be inconsistent, and he needs to improve his fluidity to secure himself at the next level. Additionally, his run blocking is not as developed as some of his peers in this draft class. He lacks great flexibility, and his hand placement is inconsistent. While Paul has many positive attributes, these concerns may cause him to fall into the second round or even further down the draft board.
Paul’s body composition suggests that he has the potential to be an exceptional pass protector at the NFL level. However, he must improve his run blocking to become a starting tackle in the league. If he can put it all together, Paul has the potential to be a franchise tackle.
As for the Rams, I believe Paul could be a good fit for them. With uncertainty at left tackle, the Rams could potentially draft Paul in the second or third round. He doesn’t necessarily have to start right away, especially if the team signs Alaric Jackson. Paul’s strong pass protection skills could provide a solid foundation for his development, and his run blocking deficiencies could be addressed with the right coaching.
According to Pro Football Focus, Paul was the top overall pass blocker, tied for 51st in run blocking grade, and ranked ninth overall among tackles. He allowed 43 pressures in 1,588 career pass protection snaps and four sacks. Paul has had a successful college career and has the potential to have a long and successful NFL career with the right coaching and development.
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