
OT- Nick Saldiveri, Old Dominion (6-6, 316)
This offensive tackle class is led by the big three of Northwestern’s Peter Skoronski, Ohio State’s Paris Johnson, and Georgia’s Broderick Jones, all underclassmen. There’s a drop-off in talent after that, but plenty of potential Day 2 tackles to be had, and many of them will be at the Senior Bowl.
Of the tackles hitting Mobile, Old Dominion’s Nick Saldiveri seems to be the hidden gem of the group. A three-year starter at right tackle for the Monarchs, Saldiveri has been one of the best non-Power Five offensive linemen in the country the last few years, and as the NFL Draft approaches he’s slowly moving up the rankings.
Saldiveri’s a natural bender who plays with terrific balance. He’s a natural mirroring pass rushers and is technically sound with clean pass sets. Light on his feet, Saldiveri reaches his landmarks on time when dealing with speed rushers and has the base and anchor to deal with power.
As a run blocker, he works in space well and understands how to attack angles and seal off defenders when climbing to the second level. To up his game, he’ll need to play with a little more edge and initial power at the point of attack.
Despite having impressive length, Saldiveri doesn’t always utilize it and needs to show improved hand placement in one-on-one pass pro at the Senior Bowl. If he can show that, and prove he can generate a little more power in the run game, Saldiveri will leave Mobile as a clear top-10 OT in the 2023 NFL Draft.
Old Dominion RT Nick Saldiveri reaches and seals the LB for the key block to spring this TD run.
— Bobby Football (@Rob__Paul) January 25, 2023
Saldiveri plays with great bend/leverage for his size and he’s one of the best G5 prospects in the 2023 NFL Draft and should have a big week at the @seniorbowl. pic.twitter.com/eanDO6AlqO