Rokevious Watkins 2012 NFL Draft prospect notes

Rokevious Watkins
6'3, 340 pounds | Offensive guard | South Carolina

First word: The interior of the offensive line is gaining some draft momentum as more players are selected each year.  Some of these players even make it into the 1st round.  However, it still seems like the majority of guards and centers are selected in the mid rounds.

Rokevious Watkins will likely be a mid round selection that has the potential to earn a starting NFL job.  He is a big and nasty player with a good strong base.  His base and size allow him to anchor and avoid getting pushed off the football.  He does a nice job firing off the ball and engaging the defense.

However, Watkins needs to work on tightening up his technique.  His balance is below average as he often is tossed off blocks and onto the ground.  This is attributed to his tendency to get over extended and his shoulders out in front of his feet.  His lack of balance limits his effectiveness as a run blocker.  Watkins is an average athlete but struggles to shuffle and mirror in space.

Overall, Watkins shows some upside due to his size and burst off the line.  However, he needs to make some real improvements if he hopes to make an impact in the NFL.

Bold statement: Rokevious Watkins will see some time as a starter but not be any teams long term solution

Games viewed: Auburn ('10), Alabama ('10), Troy ('10)

Rokevious Watkins
6'3, 340 pounds | Offensive guard | South Carolina

Notes:

• Watkins is a big offensive lineman with a good base and weight distribution
• He is not a great athlete and will struggle to move in space
• However, he does have a good burst off the line of scrimmage
• Watkins plays with a nasty streak
• He needs to improve his balance as he ends up on the ground to often
• His tendency to get over extended and out over his feet impact his balance
• In the running game, Watkins tends to stand still not driving his feet thus impacting his push
• He is more of a puncher than a velcro player
• Watkins needs to be more consistent with his pad level
• In the passing game, Watkins shows the ability to anchor after the initial contact
• However, struggles to remain balanced and shuffle his feet