The 2018 NFL Draft has some really talented interior offensive linemen and we could see several guards selected in the 1st round.
We are going to see some big and physical offensive guards enter the NFL this year. The 2018 NFL Draft is loaded with road graders and interior offensive linemen capable of making an immediate impact.
It wouldn’t come as a shock to me if we see as many as 4 guard selected by the end of the 1st round. This group not only has top-end talent but it also has plenty of depth.
Below is a list of my top rated 2018 NFL Draft guard prospects:
1. Quenton Nelson, Notre Dame
Big Board Rank: No. 8
Many see Nelson as one of the top overall players in this draft and they aren’t wrong. He will be an immediate starter and be a steady presence along the interior of the offensive line.
2. Will Hernandez, UTEP
Big Board Rank: No. 19
Hernandez is a true tough guy who moves defenders off the line of scrimmage. However, he also has good athleticism that allows him to make blocks on the move.
3. Isaiah Wynn, Georgia
Big Board Rank: No. 21
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Wynn’s lack of length likely means he plays guard in the NFL, but I wouldn’t completely rule out a possibility he sees action at offensive tackle.
4. Braden Smith, Auburn
Big Board Rank: No. 51
Smith is flying under the radar at this point in the process. However, he’s another plug and play prospect who will be a long-term NFL starter.
5. Billy Price, Ohio State
Big Board Rank: No. 52
Despite a combine injury, Price remains in the late 1st to early 2nd round range. His ability to play both guard and center only increases his value.
6. Austin Corbett, Nevada
Big Board Rank: No. 69
Corbett is a physical player who works to the whistle and loves to generate a push.
7. Martinas Rakin, Mississippi State
Big Board Rank: No. 89
8. Sean Welsh, Iowa
Big Board Rank: No. 95
9. Tyrell Crosby, Oregon
Big Board Rank: No. 122
10. Cody Gossett, Appalachian State
Big Board Rank: No. 123
11. Beau Benzschawel, Wisconsin
Big Board Rank: No. 144
12. Wyatt Teller, Virginia Tech
Big Board Rank: No. 152
13. Martez Ivey, Florida
Big Board Rank: No. 156
14. Sam Jones, Arizona State
Big Board Rank: No. 178
15. K.J. Malone, LSU
Big Board Rank: No. 179
16. Taylor Hearn, Clemson
Big Board Rank: No. 194