The Kansas City Chiefs need a bully at right tackle
Sep 13, 2014; Miami, FL, USA; Pittsburgh Panthers offensive linesman T.J. Clemmings (68) takes a drink on the sidelines in the fourth quarter in a game against the FIU Golden Panthers at FIU Stadium. Pitt won 42-25. Mandatory Credit: Robert Mayer-USA TODAY Sports
4. T.J. Clemmings – Pittsburgh – 6’5″, 309 lbs – 35 1/8″ arms – 22 bench press reps
There may not be a more boom-or-bust prospect in the first round of the 2015 NFL draft than Pittsburgh’s T.J. Clemmings. Clemmings didn’t play football until his junior year of high school and then he played defensive end up until he switched to OT before his junior year at Pitt. So to say he’s still a little raw would be an understatement. Clemmings has four games available to watch at draftbreakdown, and I watched all four.
At times Clemmings looks like the best offensive lineman in this draft class. He’s athletic enough to keep up with edge rushers but his technique needs a lot of work. He reaches the second level with ease and on one play I watched him absolutely destroy Duke’s MLB. He’s aggressive in the run game and has the demeanor to be a bully. That said, he struggled against edge rushers a lot at the senior bowl and clearly has some work to do. Much like Humphries, his upside is tempting if he can reach it. While Humphries needs to bulk up and get stronger, Clemmings needs to master the technique that he got such a late start on, still being relatively new to the position.
Don’t just take my word for it……
From Dane Brugler’s Draft Guide:
"Clemmings has explosive upper body strength and powerful hands to dominate and knock defenders off their feet, playing like a strong oak tree made out of muscle fibers (once he gets his hands on you, it’s over). He’s very raw in several areas, but he has untapped potential with moldable traits to be a long-term NFL starter at offensive tackle or guard."
Final Verdict:
While the thought of Clemmings starting week one of his rookie season against premier pass rushers is a little scary, the upside Clemmings has is undeniable. Not only could Clemmings be an absolute bully at RT, he’s one of the few “bullies” in this draft that could also be a fantastic pass blocker. I’d be happy with Clemmings as the Chiefs first round pick.