Minnesota Vikings draft 2017: Post-Senior Bowl mock draft
By Jordan Reid
In someone that will be the tallest player in this years draft class, size is what stands out at first glance of Arkansas offensive lineman Dan Skipper. At 6-foot-10, 325 pounds, Skipper exceeds the average size of an NFL offensive tackle.
Seeing that size on an offensive tackle would normally mean that he is a sure fire early round selection, but not Skipper. Despite his size, he is a long-term project. Surprisingly his enormous size and length is somewhat of a disadvantage.
As you can imagine, Skipper is a big target for defenders. Already having limited athleticism, Skipper really struggles when defenders are able to get into his chest.
Where Skipper really struggles is against speed rushers. On film, you see that he has average feet, but he struggles re-directing his massive body, resulting in many edge rushers beating him around the corner
How does Skipper fit on the Vikings? The former first-team All-SEC selection would be best served as a developmental swing tackle, meaning he has the ability to play right or left tackle.
With current questions surrounding both offensive tackle spots on the Vikings, Skipper potentially could be a good project for Vikings offensive line coach Tony Sparano while he sits and learns behind a future free-agent signing.
Skipper has the tools to be a future starting tackle on an NFL roster, but right now he’s not technically sound. He has some technique issues that need refinement before becoming an every day starter.
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