Why draft Jeremy Zuttah?
The Rutgers offensive tackle clocked the fastest time for his position (4.99!) at the Combine and was second strongest, only behind Jake Long.
Sounds like reason enough for me. And it doesn't even end there: Apparently he blew GMs away during the interview process. What I'm trying to say is Zuttah was a gigantic beneficiary of this year's Combine. Also, watch the highlight -- if you question his athletic ability, you're crazy (side note: the guy who "tackled" him is in a lot of trouble.)
So why is he ranked No. 14 among offensive tackles by NFLDraftscout.com and No. 9 among offensive guards by NFLDraftcountdown.com?
Well, my guess is that he's considered a "tweener" along the offensive line (a term usually designated for guys on the defensive side of the ball). This year's Pro Bowl tackles were Flozell Adams (6'7, 340), Chad Clifton (6'5, 320), Walter Jones (6'5, 325), Chris Samuels (6'5, 310), Jonathan Ogden (6'9, 345), Marcus McNeil (6'7, 336) and rookie Joe Thomas (6'6, 315).
What do all of those guys have in common? They're all taller and heavier than Zuttah. All of them.
At the Combine, Zuttah checked in at 6'4, 303. But, I left out a name from that list of Pro Bowlers: Matt Light. The man in charge of keeping Tom Brady's backside covered is 6'4, 305. Eerily similar sizes.
Zuttah was a four year starter along a line that plowed massive holes for Ray Rice. Many think he'll have to slide inside to guard, which would require a lot of beefing up. One GM at the Combine said they could see him as a center, as well.
What a great problem to have: A guy who projects at three different positions. All the more.
Yet many consider him a second-day pick. I disagree. Zuttah is at least worthy of a selection in the third round.
Also, draft these guys:
Marcus Monk
Joe Flacco
Dustin Keller
Ryan Mundy
Chevis Jackson