With The First Pick
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2018 NFL Draft: Quenton Nelson Scouting Report

By Jon Dove

SOUTH BEND, IN - OCTOBER 17: Quenton Nelson #56 of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish celebrates after a 10-yard touchdown reception by Corey Robinson against the USC Trojans in the fourth quarter of the game at Notre Dame Stadium on October 17, 2015 in South Bend, Indiana. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images)
SOUTH BEND, IN - OCTOBER 17: Quenton Nelson #56 of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish celebrates after a 10-yard touchdown reception by Corey Robinson against the USC Trojans in the fourth quarter of the game at Notre Dame Stadium on October 17, 2015 in South Bend, Indiana. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images) /
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Notre Dame’s Quenton Nelson is my top rated guard for the 2018 NFL Draft.

Quenton Nelson isn’t a flashy player but is someone who gets the job done. He is one of the more physical players in the 2018 NFL Draft. It’s this physicality and his proper technique that make him an excellent run blocker.

Nelson is a beast in the trenches who can generate a push off the line of scrimmage. He is committed to gaining inside hands, maintaining a strong base and keeping his feet moving. His sound technique is one of the main reasons why he is so effective.

As a run blocker, Nelson doesn’t just use brute force to move defenders. He also has a good feel for angles and can seal the defender from the play. Nelson features enough athleticism to get out on the move and reach the 2nd level.

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However, there is some stiffness to his game which limits his overall range. Nelson’s size and bulk can result in some plotting movements. He just isn’t an overly explosive athlete which could hurt his overall versatility.

The key is that Nelson projects as a guard only prospect which is a spot that doesn’t require elite athleticism.

In pass protection, Nelson plays with excellent balance and a wide base. He is able to anchor at the point of attack and reset after contact. Nelson keeps his head on a swivel and quickly recognizes the immediate threat.

While he lacks elite lateral quickness, Nelson is capable of mirroring the defender by using his thick frame.

Overall, this is a very safe prospect who projects as a day-1 starter. He will provide immediate help in the running game and not get exposed in pass protection. Many see Nelson as a potential top-10 pick, but that seems a little rich.

He does have some limitations as an athlete that could hinder his upside. However, Nelson is absolutely a 1st round prospect and should hear his name called early on draft day.

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