In the 3rd round the New York Jets selected Brian Winters. The 6’4″ 320lb offensive lineman played his college football at Kent State.
Though 33 of his 49 career starts have come at left tackle, Winters’ NFL future may lie at right tackle or perhaps even inside at guard. He has the requisite height to play on the outside, but he has developed into a standout based more on his physicality and toughness rather than elite athleticism.
Excellent durability. Played in all 49 games of his collegiate career. Showed his toughness in playing through a left shoulder dislocation (third game of the season) that left him at what he described as “70 percent.” The injury originally occurred during the state wrestling tournament during his sophomore year of high school and ultimately required surgery following the 2011 season.
WEAKNESSES: May not possess the foot speed or flexibility required to remain at left tackle against NFL pass rushers. Has been able to rely on his strength and tenacity at this level but consistently plays with a high pad level, negating his own power and losing out on the leverage battle. Projected by many as a guard but has no experience inside. Shoulder injury requires a close medical evaluation.
At first glance this is bad news if your name is Vladimir Ducasse. The Jets are cleaning the roster of Mike Tannenbaum draft picks and Vlad has done nothing to convince the Jets that he is ready to start. With the departure of both guards from last year (Brandon Moore is still a free agent and Matt Slauson signed with the Bears), Winters has a great opportunity in front of him.
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