Jake Matthews Scouting Report

University of Texas A&M offensive tackle Jake Matthews, along with high-profile teammate OT Luke Joeckel, has been a key cog in the Aggies' surprising 2012 resurrection. Although he is not as talented on paper as the aforementioned Joeckel, Matthews could join him in the first round of the 2013 NFL Draft.

Matthews lacks the prototypical bulk that most NFL offensive tackles require, but that can come from time invested in the weight room. Since he likely will begin his career on the right side, his below average foot quickness can be masked to some degree by his solid hand-placement. Pass protection is not his strong suit and will need some grooming in his technique. Learning to sink through his hips and knees and thrust into his opponent's chest more consistently will be important to his development.

The 6'5" junior plays best as a physically imposing run blocker. He brings a lot of effort and can be very scrappy. Keeps his pad level low and looks to maul defenders out of the play through the whistle. If anything, he can be over-aggressive by allowing his upper body to be overextended, which can allow defenders to catch him off-balance. He is an intelligent player though and displays good awareness when defenders stunt or come off the edge on a blitz.

Matthews could sneak into the first round, but his current value places him as a second round pick in the 2013 NFL Draft.