Player Profile: Justin Pugh

Justin Pugh

Height:  6'5
Weight:  301
School:  Syracuse
Position:  Offensive Tackle
Rank:  #9 Offensive Tackle
Projection:  5th Round

Strengths
-Experienced.  Started 37 of 37 games.  All at Left Tackle
-Has room to add bulk to frame
-Very quick (1.67 10 yard split.  3rd fastest for offensive lineman)
-Does a great job of getting set in his pass pro
-Moves well latterly to mirror defenders
-Big hands that help in controlling defenders
-Shows good technique in run blocking.  Very sound
-High Football IQ.  Understands scheme and stunts/blitzes
-Strong Character with excellent work ethic.
-Durable.  Never missed a game because of injury

Weaknesses
-Short Arms (32") for a tackle
-Doesn't have much strength which causes him to have a weak anchor.
-Needs to add weight.  Played under 300 lbs
-Doesn't have the ideal height for a tackle
-Doesn't play with great pad level.  Can be stood up by defenders
-Not an over powering run blocker.  More shield blocker

Summary
Before the draft process started there was a lot of buzz about Justin Pugh possibly making his way into the late first round consideration.  However Pugh was dominated for most of the Senior Bowl and it really raised some questions about where he should play in the NFL.  Pugh has the athletic ability to be a LT.  He moves well, has good footwork, and can mirror defenders.  Add in his good technique and you have something to work with.  But the big issues lie in his size.  He's only 6'5 and barely 300 lbs.  He played most of his career in the high 280s.  With his lack of bulk and not dominant strength he can get pushed around a lot.  There are several times on tape where the defender was able to get under him and move him around or had him pushed back into the QB.  There is talk that Pugh might be a guard, but I don't know how he would do dealing with stronger defensive tackles.  Right now I'd think his best fit would be as a Right Tackle in a zone blocking scheme.  There he could use his athletic ability and technique to beat defenders.  But don't look for him to go anytime in the first couple of days.  Pugh might be a 4th round pick at best.