10 Tackles in 21 Days: #3 TJ Clemmings

View image | gettyimages.com

C3 is taking a look at 10 Offensive Tackles that the Panthers could end up with on Draft Day.  This series will bring you 10 possible Tackles all over the next 21 days.  We will give you some little known information and some tape to check out.  Hopefully you will gain some insight into the prospects and can find a few that you fall in love with and root for.  

Before Draft Day we will also look at WRs, DBs, DTs, TEs and LBs but we start with OTs.  Why?  Two reasons:  First, our LT ranked second to last in the League according to our friends at www.ProFootballFocus.com.

Yesterday we took a look at Ty Sambrailo out of Colorado.  The next player I’m putting forward for you to get to know is a big Hog-Mollie out of Pittsburgh.

TJ Clemmings                    Pittsburgh                  6’6/309

This young man may have the most upside of the Tackles in the Draft, but most likely is not ready to be a Day 1 starter.  Clemmings only played football for two years in High School and was recruited to the University of Pittsburgh to play Defensive End.  He actually played DE at Pitt for his first two seasons (was red-shirted his Sophomore year) and has played only two years on the Offensive Line.  And he has only played RT.  Yet, his body is pretty ideal for the LT position and he will draw a lot of attention from NFL scouts.  He is long and lean and has nice long arms (nearly 35-inches).  He positions his body well and has good lateral movement.  

His inexperience shows up from time to time and he will take time.  I think this would be a great second round pick if and only if the Panthers also obtain a veteran Free Agent and Clemmings doesn't have to play right away.  As this young man is coached up, I could see him developing into a very good LT in this league for ten years.  But he will have to work at it and it won’t be easy.  I have him as the third OT most likely to be drafted by the Panthers because I can see him available at Pick 57 and should the Panthers also sign a King Dunlap or Mike Bulaga so that he can have time to develop.  

Watch his tape and see why I’m patiently excited about this young man. When Pitt had big plays,they were behind his side of the line.

Tell me what you think about Clemmings.  Leave your thoughts and I’ll respond.

Mel