Andrew Datko 2012 NFL Draft prospect notes

Andrew Datko
6'6, 311 pounds | Offensive Tackle | Florida State

First word: Florida State has done a good job at producing good offensive line prospects.  However, they all play a certain style that doesn't fit every NFL scheme.  They are more about locking on and controlling rather than driving off the ball.  The lineman are more athletic and quick than big and strong.  None the less, they possess good technique and potential.

Andrew Datko is getting some attention as a mid round tackle prospect.  He is a decent athlete with the ability to move in space and shuffle his feet.  He does a good job keeping low and holding leverage against his opponents.  Datko's biggest strength is his ability engage and control.  His heavy hands make it tough for the defender to disengage and pursue the football.

While Datko has a good bend, he struggles to anchor and hold his ground after contact.  He is often pushed back into the backfield leading me to question his lower body strength.  Datko also struggles to create a push off the line of scrimmage limiting which limits his scheme versatility.

Overall, Datko looks like a mid level prospect with limited upside.  He has the ability to start in the NFL but will be nothing more than a temporary player.  Don't expect him to be a long term starter for any one team but to bounce around from team to team as a starter.

Bold statement: Datko will slide past the 4th round of the 2012 draft

Games viewed: Miami ('10), Clemson ('10), North Carolina ('10)

Andrew Datko
6'6, 311 pounds | Offensive Tackle | Florida State

Notes:

• Datko is listed at 6-6 311lbs but appears shorter and lighter than that listed weight
• He is a decent athlete that quickly goes from stance to set
• His quick feet allow him to reach and protect the edge
• Datko possesses a good natural bend helping him gain leverage
• He has good upper body strength and heavy hands allowing him to velcro
• His high football IQ allows him to identify the immediate threat
• Datko loves to lock on and control the defender and is good at it
• The biggest question mark is his lower body strength
• Struggles to create a push off the line
• He has a quick first step but cannot be described as explosive