Jeff Matthews OT Texas A&M #75
Wt: 308
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[level-2014-scouting-reports]
Size/Athleticism: Looks the part of an NFL left tackle. Strength is a little underwhelming. Only 24 reps on the bench press at the combine and that lack of power shows in his play. Moderate athleticism, but definitely a notch below the elite left tackles that can slide out and mirror the league’s best pass-rushers.
Pass Protection: Very polished in terms of his fundamentals when he has time. If a pass-rusher doesn’t challenge him with speed off the edge or throw him off balance immediately, he gets into position and generally will hold his ground. However, he’s sort of a bend-but-don’t-break lineman. He holds his ground most of the time, but he’ll get walked back a few steps and rarely finishes anyone off. Struggles with balance at times. Doesn’t always stay low enough to play with leverage and gets knocked back on his heels too often. Does a nice job diagnosing the defense and making late adjustments based on delayed blitzes, etc.
Run Blocking: Capable of getting to the second level but quickness and agility are limited and doesn’t always get to his assignment. Has a tendency to get lost in space and takes too long to pick a direction. Doesn’t have the power to finish guys off. Technically sound and clearly has a strong grasp of his assignments. Does a nice job using his assignment’s momentum to direct him away from the designed direction of the play.
Intangibles: Comes from the most successful NFL family in league history. Son of Hall of Famer Bruce Matthews. Cousin of Packers linebacker Clay Matthews.
Durability: Extremely durable. 45 consecutive starts.
[/level-2014-scouting-reports]
Comments: Matthews is among the most technically sound linemen to enter the draft in recent years, but he’s somewhat limited in terms of his physical tools. He’s built to be more of a power blocker than a finesse lineman, but he lacks the strength to dominate. He may have already maxed out his potential, giving him very little upside. If he’s already playing at or near his peak, he’s still a quality starter in the NFL but clearly below the elite level.