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2011 NFL Draft Player Profile | Anthony Castonzo 

Drafted by Indianapolis Colts 

Offensive linemen are rarely amongst the most well-known draft prospects, and Anthony Castonzo is no exception.

Castonzo was a starter in all four seasons at Boston College, and moved from right tackle to left tackle following his freshman campaign. He was the first true freshman in 10 years to start on the Golden Eagles’ offensive line, and helped the team go 11-3 that season, including a win in the Citrus Bowl over Michigan State.

Player Name: Anthony Castonzo

Position: OT

School: Boston College

Height: 6’7

Weight: 311

Arm: 34 1/2

Hand: 10 5/8

Strengths:

Castonzo possesses good size for an NFL offensive tackle. He’s 6’7″ and does a good job of getting his hands inside of defenders, helping him to gain leverage and drive them backwards. His footwork and balance help him keep his opponents in front of him, and he finishes blocks. Castonzo has a nice first step off the snap, which allows him to get into good position to take on oncoming defensive linemen. He’s effective in both pass and run protection, and is big and agile enough to open up running lanes. He can also pull well and get downfield quickly enough to help block linebackers and defensive backs. He’s a very hard worker and has a high IQ on and off the field.

Weaknesses:

At 308 pounds, Castonzo could still stand to add some bulk and strength. He was able to push smaller college players around, but, obviously, players in the NFL are bigger and stronger. At times, he can be overpowered by quicker and stronger defenders, and is susceptible at times to being beaten by a quick first inside move. He won’t amaze you with his athleticism, and doesn’t consistently show the lateral agility necessary to effectively neutralize speedy edge rushers. At times, he can also be overpowered by defenders that are able to get leverage due to being quicker off the snap.

Draft Range:

Due to his size, potential and reputation as a hard-worker, Castonzo is likely a mid-first to early-second round pick. He may have to start his career on the right side, but, assuming he can make proper adjustments to his game, he can certainly slide over and become a starting left tackle at some point as a pro. He does need to add strength, but that’s easily done. He may never have the necessary speed to have great success against speedier pass rushers, but does enough things well enough to become a very solid NFL offensive tackle.

NFL Player Comparison: Winston Justice

About the author: Taylor Smith

Taylor Smith has been with NFL Soup since its inception, and is a jack of all trades, helping with breaking news, fantasy football advice and NFL Draft coverage. Smith also heads NFL Soup's live chats and radio shows. Taylor also contributes content to our sister sites, MLB Soup, NBA Soup and NBA Water Cooler. He lives in San Diego, where he also is a writer for the L.A. Clippers. Follow him on Twitter @NFLSoupTaylor.

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