Scouting Report: OT Riley Reiff
January 12, 2012
2012 NFL Draft Scouting Report:
OT Riley Reiff, Iowa (junior):
Measurables:
Height- 6’6″
Weight- 300
Pros:
- Very athletic for his size- capable of getting to the 2nd level as well as dealing with speed rushers
- Very strong run blocker, envelops his guy and walls him off
- Plays with a good base, and center of gravity
- Has a good anchor, rarely allows the defender to determine his path
- Smart lineman, knows the importance of keeping a clean pocket
- Plays within himself, rarely commits a penalty
- Has the frame to add additional weight if needed
Cons:
- Needs to find a better answer to defenders counter-moves
- Has to be more consistent on knowing when to release to the 2nd level on running plays. Usually is good at it, but once or twice a game will release too early, giving a free shot on the ball carrier.
- Footwork can get sloppy at times
Analysis:
Reiff is a really interesting prospect and one that I think is getting overlooked in some circles. He has all the tools to develop into an elite left tackle, he only needs to turn his consistency from very good to great. Reiff primarily gets overlooked because Iowa was down this year, but to try to blame any of their offensive struggles on him would be a mistake. Regardless of who he went up against, Reiff won the vast majority of his battles. He shows an ability to fit either a ZBS or power blocking scheme, and should have no problem being a day one starter at Left Tackle (obviously he could start at RT as well). He is simply a wall out there for opposing defenders. He will give a clean pocket for his quarterback, and open up plenty of running lanes. He’s also been pretty healthy these last two years, which is always a big plus.