2021 NFL Draft: Alijah Vera-Tucker leads the way of top-10 IOL
By Scott Gorman
As we close out March, I have already discussed the the 2021 NFL Draft player rankings of the quarterbacks, running backs, wide receivers, tight ends and offensive tackles. And I finish up my 2021 NFL Draft offensive player rankings with the interior of the offensive line. This is another outstanding position group that contains the potential for multiple starters throughout and a few All-Pro possibilities.
Take a look below as I discuss my top-10 interior players in the 2021 NFL Draft, which includes both the guards and centers. The IOL encompasses a versatile group of small school studs as well as the big school bullies. My next set of rankings will focus on the other side of the ball with the defensive interior, so let’s see
Alijah Vera-Tucker top IOL in 2021 NFL Draft class
The conversion from college tackle to NFL guard is a tricky but inevitable proposition for many prospects this time of year. One of the best projections in this regard for the 2021 NFL Draft is USC’s Alijah Vera-Tucker. The former offensive tackle did an admirable job switching between OG and the LT position with the Trojans but is better suited inside at the next level.
Vera-Tucker’s experience at a multitude of positions should only benefit his stock when April rolls around. His nasty demeanor on the field and bully-style mentality will make him a great fit inside in a power-blocking scheme. And he could also end up as a swing-tackle on some NFL squads. The former Trojan’s lack of ideal size for the tackle position prompted the projection to guard, but that could make Vera-Tucker a coveted player in the top 25 picks.
2. Creed Humphrey (OC) – Oklahoma
Many expected Humphrey to declare after the 2019 season as one of the best interior blockers on a loaded Sooners line. However, he decided to come back and help break in a new young and exciting QB prospect in Spencer Rattler. His stock seems to have slipped a bit in 2020 behind some inconsistent play on offense.
However, Humphrey remains one of the better bets at the pivot position and could be a late first-rounder when the dust settles. Although Humphrey has tremendous size and footwork inside, he’s not going to overpower most interior DL. He’s got an incredibly high football IQ and should start for the next decade in a zone-blocking scheme.