patmoran2006
02-17-2010, 10:15 AM
Bryan Bulaga (OT)-Iowa
6’6, 312lbs
Strengths:
Bulaga is my number two offensive tackle in this draft, though following his sophomore year he was regarded by many to be tops in the nation. He’s a sound technical player who demonstrates consistent footwork, hand placement and use of leverage to neutralize some of the best pass rushers in this country.
In the Orange Bowl Bulaga was matched up against one of the top rated defensive ends in the country in Derrick Morgan, and absolutely stone walled the Georgia Tech prospect. He dominated Morgan for most of the night and answered many critics who had lingering questions about his all-around game. He’s significantly improved his strength and when coupled with his mammoth size and wingspan, it renders defenders nearly hopeless to run around.
Bulaga is probably the finest pass protector in this draft. He has great lateral quickness he uses against the speed rushers and uses a low center of gravity to anchor against the bull rush. He uses his long arms to deliver a punch and get his hands on pass rushers. When that happens its game over as he’ll control the rush and not allow you to get away until it’s too late.
Finally his work ethic is unquestioned. He’s a true student of the game and not only did he come back from a serious medical scare but also worked diligently to improve his run blocking. It was on display this season as he was more fit and able to get to the second level more often to make plays for his running backs.
Weaknesses:
Bulaga had a thyroid condition coming into his junior year which required him to miss time early on while doctors worked on the illness. He was treated and given a clean bill of health to return for the fourth game of the season, but it took a little while for him to get back to full strength. There’s not much known medically about how football could affect his condition and because of that he will have to pass a battery of medical exams before a NFL team would risk a high pick on him.
He also needs to continue working on his run blocking as he’s not as sound in that area as his pass protection, particularly when it comes to identifying targets on the second level or working in space if he kicks out or pulls to lead the sweep. If he can improve in those areas he could be an elite franchise left tackle in the NFL.
How he fits the Bills:
Bulaga could be the Bills future franchise left tackle sitting on the board with the ninth pick. His value right now falls in the 10-15 range, so the pick would hardly be considered a reach.
Buffalo can potentially finish their starting offensive line off for the next seven or so years with Bulaga on board. You have a pair of second year players (Eric Wood, Andy Levitre) with solid potential at the guard spots, right tackle is ok with a healthy Brad Butler, and Geoff Hangartner looks like veteran leader at center.
To be able to have a line that can grow together, develop and most importantly stay together is something every NFL team covets. Buffalo should take advantage of the opportunity.
Projection: Top 15 Pick
(By Matt Edler, AKA DraftBoy)
6’6, 312lbs
Strengths:
Bulaga is my number two offensive tackle in this draft, though following his sophomore year he was regarded by many to be tops in the nation. He’s a sound technical player who demonstrates consistent footwork, hand placement and use of leverage to neutralize some of the best pass rushers in this country.
In the Orange Bowl Bulaga was matched up against one of the top rated defensive ends in the country in Derrick Morgan, and absolutely stone walled the Georgia Tech prospect. He dominated Morgan for most of the night and answered many critics who had lingering questions about his all-around game. He’s significantly improved his strength and when coupled with his mammoth size and wingspan, it renders defenders nearly hopeless to run around.
Bulaga is probably the finest pass protector in this draft. He has great lateral quickness he uses against the speed rushers and uses a low center of gravity to anchor against the bull rush. He uses his long arms to deliver a punch and get his hands on pass rushers. When that happens its game over as he’ll control the rush and not allow you to get away until it’s too late.
Finally his work ethic is unquestioned. He’s a true student of the game and not only did he come back from a serious medical scare but also worked diligently to improve his run blocking. It was on display this season as he was more fit and able to get to the second level more often to make plays for his running backs.
Weaknesses:
Bulaga had a thyroid condition coming into his junior year which required him to miss time early on while doctors worked on the illness. He was treated and given a clean bill of health to return for the fourth game of the season, but it took a little while for him to get back to full strength. There’s not much known medically about how football could affect his condition and because of that he will have to pass a battery of medical exams before a NFL team would risk a high pick on him.
He also needs to continue working on his run blocking as he’s not as sound in that area as his pass protection, particularly when it comes to identifying targets on the second level or working in space if he kicks out or pulls to lead the sweep. If he can improve in those areas he could be an elite franchise left tackle in the NFL.
How he fits the Bills:
Bulaga could be the Bills future franchise left tackle sitting on the board with the ninth pick. His value right now falls in the 10-15 range, so the pick would hardly be considered a reach.
Buffalo can potentially finish their starting offensive line off for the next seven or so years with Bulaga on board. You have a pair of second year players (Eric Wood, Andy Levitre) with solid potential at the guard spots, right tackle is ok with a healthy Brad Butler, and Geoff Hangartner looks like veteran leader at center.
To be able to have a line that can grow together, develop and most importantly stay together is something every NFL team covets. Buffalo should take advantage of the opportunity.
Projection: Top 15 Pick
(By Matt Edler, AKA DraftBoy)