2017 NFL Draft: Michigan Erik Magnuson Scouting Report
By Jon Dove
Michigan’s Erik Magnuson is a well-built offensive line prospect who could potentially fit at either guard or tackle in the NFL.
Erik Magnuson spent the past two years playing right tackle where he matched up against upper-level competition in the Big 10. He is best described as a solid all-around prospect who has ideal size and solid athleticism.
Magnuson has good overall movement skills with the ability to reach the second level, trap and work on the edge. His initial step helps him quickly get out of his stance and into his set. This allows him to routinely make first contact and gain inside hands.
While he is a solid athlete, Magnuson needs to clean up his technique and become a more balanced player. He tends to get his shoulders extended over his frame and lungs at the defender. In pass protection, he is a waste bender which also impacts his balance.
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The way he moves makes me believe that he has enough athleticism to improve his balance and learn to sit into his stance. He’s not a stiff or upright player who struggles to change direction. It may take some time, but Magnuson could eventually improve his ability to play in space.
Magnuson isn’t an overly powerful player in that he struggles to Velcro and generate a push off the line of scrimmage. His inability to remain engaged allows the defender to disengage and pursue the football. This is another area where coaching and training could result in a positive step.
Improving his strength would give Magnuson some more versatility and allow him to move inside to guard.
Overall, this is a solid overall prospect who could quickly carve out a career as a swing offensive line man. He could begin his career in this backup role and potentially develop into a starter down the road.
Current Draft Range: 5th Round