5 possible replacements for Riley Reiff in the 2021 NFL Draft
By Dean Jones
Samuel Cosmi – Texas
Samuel Cosmi might be a little undersized when it comes to offensive tackles in the NFL. But there is no getting away from what an exciting prospect he is heading into his final college season.
The Texas offensive lineman has a tremendous amount going for him. This is down in no small part to the high football IQ that puts him in the best possible position to succeed on any given snap.
Cosmi’s ability to put himself at the right sort of angles has stood out considerably during his time with the Longhorns. This intelligence is going to serve him well in a professional environment and it is matched by an aggressive nature to his play that surprises opposing pass-rushers.
The tackle’s technique is up there with anyone in the college game outside of premier protector Penei Sewell of Oregon. The Vikings will not be in a position to select the Oregon sensation next spring. But someone like Cosmi might be worth a closer look if he takes another step forward in 2020.
Cosmi will need to spend some serious time in the weight room in order to make a real go of things in the NFL though. His rash decision-making is something else he needs to cut out of his game. But this is something that normally comes with more snaps on the field.
His inability to hold his balance against power rushes is another cause for concern. However, there is plenty to work with for whatever team that ends up taking Cosmi.