2013 NFL Draft Scouting Report: Earl Watford - OG, James Madison

Adding depth on the Offensive Line late in the draft is a staple for most NFL teams, which is why we see a large number of those guys pop up in that range, and see lots of them actually get drafted there. They are also the least risky players in the draft, which is why they seem to get picked often. Earl Watford from James Madison falls into this category.

Watford played in 43 games for the Dukes, starting 37 of them, almost exclusively at Left Guard, but did start one game as a Tackle back when he was a Freshman. He was named First Team All-CAA both in 2011 and in 2012, anchoring an offensive line where he only allowed one sack all year last season. He's an athletic guy (not your typical Guard), running a 5.06 40 and a 5 second flat 20 yard shuttle, which is especially helpful when pulling and getting up field, something any Colts Guard will be asked to do frequently.

Obviously the biggest knock on Watford is the competition level, playing in FCS. He did get to play in the East-West Shrine game, but there isn't much information out there about how he fared. Teams will obviously be clued in much more than us fans are about his skill level. They did play a few FBS teams (WVU) over the years, but not consistently. It doesn't mean he can't make the jump, as many other FCS players have done, just a bit of an unknown at this point.

The Colts are always looking for quality depth along the Offensive Line, and no team should be looking for starters in Rounds 6 or 7, which is where Watford is being projected. With the signing of Donald Thomas yesterday one of those starting spots is taken anyway. I think Watford is probably a bit small for what Pep Hamilton's Offense will need up front, but his frame could easily handle another 15-20 pounds of muscle if need be.

Scouting Profile from NFL.com:

Strengths

Athletically built interior player. Solid anchor in pass protection, plays with a wide base and has the feet to mirror his opponent. Packs a strong punch to knock back his man, but also takes a strong punch and holds his ground. Comes out of his stance quickly in the run game, uses strong hands and powerful extension to move opponents out of the hole and churns his feet to pancake defensive linemen when crashing down the line. Effective zone blocker because of his mobility and strength. Agile enough to move his feet to get the backside angle while engaged.

Weaknesses

Plays most games against a lower level of competition. Must continue to build strength in his base in order to consistently anchor against NFL defenders. Plays a bit tall, needs to sit down in his stance consistently and keep his natural bend to maintain leverage.

NFL Comparison

Jacob Bell

Combine Measurements: