USC’s Chad Wheeler is an athletic and experienced offensive tackle prospect who has a chance to make an impact early in his NFL career.
Chad Wheeler has a legitimate chance to be one of the more protective offensive tackle prospects to come out of the 2017 NFL Draft. This year’s class isn’t very deep and lacks a truly elite prospect. However, Wheeler has the physical attributes to emerge as an above-average starter.
His best attribute is his overall athleticism and movement skills. He features quick feet, balance and straight line speed. Wheeler is very effective pulling to the edge, trapping inside and reaching the second level.
He uses his foot speed and sound technique to protect the edge. Wheeler routinely keeps a low pad level and wide base. He gets his hands out in front of his body and typically initiates the contact. Wheeler can deliver a strong punch thanks to the fact he rolls his hips.
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This is a really strong pass protector who should be able to make a quick adjustment to the NFL. The one issue is that he gives up the inside gap way too often. His new coaches will need to ensure that he doesn’t get too focused on protecting the edge as that inside rush is a quicker path to the quarterback.
Wheeler needs to hit the weight room and add more bulk to his frame. He needs to play with a little more power to develop into a well-rounded player. The one thing that will help him overcome his strength concerns is the fact he plays with a nasty streak.
This shows up in the run game where Wheeler loves to fire off the ball and strike the defender. After delivering an initial punch, Wheeler quickly gains inside hands and works to drive the defender off the ball.
Again, adding some more strength and bulk will help him become a more physical player.
The medical checks at the combine will be important for Wheeler who has two major knee injuries on his record.
Current Draft Range: 3rd Round