2014 NFL Draft Profile: Cyrus Kouandjio, OT Alabama

Sep 1, 2012; Arlington, TX, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide left tackle Cyrus Kouandjio (71) on the line of scrimmage during the second quarter against the Michigan Wolverines at Cowboys Stadium. Alabama beat Michigan 41-14. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports

The fact that another offensive tackle is being profiled so early says a lot for the depth of the position in this year’s draft.  This time, it’s Alabama’s Cyrus Kouandjio that gets the honors.

Kouandjio is a massive man.  He stands 6’7″ tall and weighs in at 322 pounds.  One of the things that makes that even more impressive is that he reportedly only has 16% body fat, which is amazing for an offensive lineman of his height and weight.

Jan 2, 2014; New Orleans, LA, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide offensive linesman Cyrus Kouandjio (71) against the Oklahoma Sooners during the third quarter of a game at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports

He decided to enter the draft after his junior year and make his mark in the 2014 NFL draft.  Alabama has a history of generating top notch offensive linemen and Kouandjio seems to be continuing that tradition.

He would be able to play either side of the offensive line in most blocking schemes, but would fit in best in the NFL at the left tackle position.  He shoud be picked toward the end of the first round.

Strengths

• Massive body
• Huge arms
• Agility
• Quick off the snap
• Great pass and run blocker

Weaknesses

• Can tend to lower his head when blocking
• Seems to lack a mean streak as a mauler

Fit For The Vikings

Kouandjio would be an excellent swing tackle for the Vikings, but they’re not in need of a starter at either tackle position at this time.

My Take

Minnesota should pass on him in the first round, but wait and see how far he slides.  If he begins to drop into the bottom of the first or beginning of the second, the Vikings should try to pull the trigger.