Six 2017 Senior Bowl prospects for the Minnesota Vikings to watch
By Jordan Reid
After entering bowl season as somewhat of an unknown, Garcia has seen his stock skyrocket. In what’s considered a historically weak offensive line class, the Troy left tackle clearly stands out.
What sets the first-team All-Sun Belt selection apart from many tackles in this class is his ability to pass protect.
Garcia is one of the few offensive lineman that has shown the ability to consistently shutdown pass rushers. An impressive stat, in over 900 snaps in 2016, Garcia did not allow a single sack.
LT Antonio Garcia was a four-year starter at Troy. He only gave up 5.5 sacks in 43 career games. None during his entire senior season.
— Jordan Reid (@Jordan_Reid) January 21, 2017
Showing nimble feet, quick hands, and power, Garcia is a candidate that potentially will be able to step onto a roster and be a day-one starter.
In the running game, there are some flaws that are correctable with coaching, but the strength, mentality and finishing ability are already there.
Prior to the Senior Bowl, he’s projected to be anywhere from a second-to-third round selection.
Coming from a smaller school, many scouts will want to see how he matches up against some of the best competition in the country.
Offensive and defensive line one-on-one sessions will be key for Garcia.
- NFL Comparison: Terron Armstead
- Projected Draft Range: Second-Round