With the 17th overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, the Las Vegas Raiders draft Alex Leatherwood, offensive tackle out of Alabama. After re-working the entire offensive line this offseason, the Raiders needed someone who could step in and perform immediately. They found that with Alex Leatherwood. Let’s take a look at the Alabama product.
Alex Leatherwood Highlights
Alex Leatherwood NFL Draft Profile and Player Info
Alex Leatherwood
Position: Offensive Tackle
Height: 6’5″
Weight: 312 lbs
Age: 22
College: Alabama Crimson Tide
Alex Leatherwood Draft Profile
Strengths
Leatherwood has long, strong arms with a stout lower half, making him physically the prototypical offensive tackle. He knows how to use his body as well, often using his length to win matchups. Leatherwood has smooth hips and strides in his pass sets. Playing in Alabama’s offense also doesn’t hurt, proving his game can easily be adapted to NFL offenses, since he essentially played in one.
Weaknesses
Leatherwood has the tendency to get to wide in his base. While it hasn’t led to balance issues, it does limit his mobility. He also spends too long at the point of contact when he should be doubling up to linebacker. For this reason, there’s tape of Leatherwood getting beat by faster linebackers. The Alabama tackle also occasionally reaches for defenders with this long arms instead of using his feet. While they may work in college, it will lead to trouble in the NFL.
RELATED | Full Alex Leatherwood NFL Draft Profile and Highlights
What to Expect From Alex Leatherwood in 2021
Alex Leatherwood was among the top offensive line prospects last season, but returned to Alabama to fix some mental mistakes. While the mental game seems to have sharpened, Leatherwood’s draft stock actual fell. There are concerns about him being on an island against speed rushers. However, he does everything else at the top level. If he gets his hands on you, you’re finished. He is going to be one popular man to run behind in Las Vegas. He is more than capable of starting for the Raiders for the next decade.
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