2016 NFL Draft Profile: Germain Ifedi, OT Texas A+M
By Adam Carlson
Germain Ifedi was a solid offensive tackle for Texas A&M, but how will that translate to the NFL and should the Minnesota Vikings be interested in him?
A guy like Germain Ifedi can be a huge value to an NFL team. With experience at both guard and offensive tackle for Texas A&M, Ifedi could fill a lot of holes on a team’s offensive line and not make him a position specific selection. Physically, it looks like he has all the tools to succeed, but the NFL is a completely different game than at the college level.
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A three-year starter at a competitive school, Ifedi faced some tough competition and held his own. Athleticism isn’t an issue for him, as he shows great ability to move side-to-side and follow pressure. His strong body and nasty play style only make him a more attractive target, as that kind of attitude can be infectious to his teammates on the offensive line.
But not everything is golden. There is some worry about his footwork and grabby nature that might keep him from being an offensive tackle at the professional level. He also appears to take some plays off or be half-hearted at times, adding to the question marks surrounding his commitment to the game and ability to push himself to succeed. In addition, he needs to finish his blocks and play until the whistle.
Here are Texas A&M offensive tackle Germain Ifedi’s numbers from the events at the 2016 NFL Scouting Combine according to NFL.com:
Height: 6’6″
Germain Ifedi compares to:
- CBS Sports: N/A
- NFL.com: Billy Turner, Dolphins
Fit for the Minnesota Vikings:
The Vikings have a lot of offensive linemen on their team, but should always be looking for young talent to grow and develop for the future of the franchise. While a player like Ifedi may appeal to Minnesota because of his versatility, there are questions as to whether or not he can be a “Mike Zimmer guy” on the main roster.
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My Take:
There is so much physical talent when watching Germain Ifedi that seeing him take plays off and not play up to his potential can be very frustrating. Because of that, I can’t even say that I’d be a big fan of the Vikings using a draft pick on Ifedi unless he fell much farther than his projected early second round status. Still, there will be teams desperate for help on the offensive line that will roll the dice on Ifedi’s potential, but Minnesota shouldn’t be one of them.