Scouting report: William Beatty

William Beatty

6'6, 306 pounds | Connecticut | Offensive tackle

Strengths: Perhaps no offensive tackle prospect helped himself more in 2008 than Beatty. After struggling in pass protection his junior year, Beatty emerged as a senior due in large part to his quickness off the snap and solid athleticism for the position. Beatty is mobile and uses great foot quickness to get into position. He uses his athleticism nicely on pulls and traps where he can get out and move around. Although he sometimes takes poor angles, he does a good job getting to the second level. Keeps his feet active to wall off pass rushers. Has long arms to push speed rushers out of a play. Smart. Adjusts well as the play develops.

Weaknesses: Because Connecticut had a left-handed quarterback, there are concerns about Beaty's ability to protect the blind side. He has problems getting high in his stance. Combine that with less-than-ideal strength, and there are some glaring problems in Beatty's game. Really doesn't have much of a hand punch. Needs to keep his arms tighter in his frame. Will get too eager to explode off the snap and was called for several false start penalties as a senior.

Final word: Because of his athleticism, Beatty may warrant a first day selection. He'll need to get much stronger in the NFL, but he could be a solid right tackle prospect in due time. Suffered a fractured right leg in 2006 and played in only five games. Named first team all-conference as a senior.

Round projection: 2