David DeCastro 2012 NFL Draft prospect notes

David DeCastro
6'5, 310 pounds | Offensive Guard | Stanford

First word: Interior offensive linemen have been getting a lot of attention in recent drafts.  We have seen the Pouncey brothers, Mike Iupati, and others drafted in the middle of the first round.  Teams are realizing the importance of having a strong interior.

David DeCastro is the real deal and appears to be a sure fire 1st round prospect.  He is an above average pass and run blocker.  DeCastro is mean, nasty, and wants nothing more than to put defenders on their back.  He won't wow you with this athleticism but he is more than capable.  His ability to reach the 2nd level and get out in front of backs is impressive.  In the passing game, DeCastro shows a strong base and good balance which allows him to anchor after initial contact.  He also has quick feet which help him mirror rushers. His strength, leverage, and nastiness are what makes him a good run blocker  It is important to note that he has experience with pro style blocking schemes thanks to Stanford's offensive scheme.

He does so many things well that it is difficult to find flaws.  However, I am not completely sold on his listed height and weight.  He appears to be shorter than 6-5 which isn't a major issue but something to keep an eye on.  He also appears to have short arms which could impact his ability to keep defenders off his frame.

Overall, DeCastro is a top notch prospect that has the ability to anchor a NFL offensive line for years.  I would be interested to see how he handles center because that would increase his value.  He gets off the ball and his hands up quickly which makes a move to center possible.

Bold statement: DeCastro will be selected in the 1st round and the first interior lineman selected

Games viewed: Virginia Tech ('10), California ('10), USC ('10), Oregon ('10)

David DeCastro
6'5, 310 pounds | Offensive Guard | Stanford

Notes:

• Castro is a solidly build, barrel chested, offensive guard
• He has great weight distribution with solid base
• His quickness allows him to be an effective down the field blocker (wreaks havoc at the 2nd level)
  
• Castro is the type of guy you want pulling and leading the charge through the hole
• He has a good natural bend with a powerful lower half that allows him to anchor after contact
• From the eye test, DeCastro appears to be shorter than his listed 6-5 height
• DeCastro explodes off the ball and rolls his hips into the defender creating a powerful jolt
• In pass protection, he is always balanced and keeps his head on a swivel
• He has a great base that makes it difficult for defenders to push him off the line
• His nastiness is very apparent as he is always looking to put defenders on their backs
• DeCastro is a very good run blocker and moves people off the ball with ease
• His heavy hands make it difficult for defenders to disengage from the block