Taylor Lewan is among the top-tier offensive tackles in this year's draft, but has jumped all over draft boards in the last year. We have seen him going in the top five all the way to the third round. Truth be told, Lewan is likely going in the first round, and could be the third offensive tackle selected. He possesses a mean streak and is an elite run blocker, which is perfect for some teams in the NFL.
Look for teams such as the Arizona Cardinals, Chicago Bears, or the Baltimore Ravens who need offensive line help immensely.
How Taylor Lewan Fits Team Needs
The Baltimore Ravens need a few upgrades along the offensive line. Tackle is one that must be addressed before the season starts, and the Ravens have been rumored to be attempting to re-sign Eugene Monroe. If they cannot sign Monroe, expect the Ravens to take a long look at an offensive tackle in the first round, and expect Lewan to be a possible target. Fellow eDraft writer and Ravens fan Derrik Klassen says he is on board if the Ravens do not re-sign Monroe.
Potential Impact As a Rookie
Should he be drafted by the Ravens, Lewan should start right away. Whether it be at left or right tackle, that remains to be seen. But, Lewan is a starting lineman in the NFL, and with the Ravens he will be given every chance to do so. If he can continue to progress, he could be one of the better rookie offensive linemen in this class.
What Lewan Does Well
Lewan is an athletic tackle, and one of the best downfield. At Michigan, there were many opportunities for Lewan to make a block down the field, mostly due to screens thrown to Jeremy Gallon, and Lewan shows elite athleticism getting downfield at his size. In addition, he is an adequate pass blocker, but with NFL coaching and his athletic ability, he has the opportunity to get bettter.
What Lewan Struggles With
At times, Lewan will get beat badly in pass protection, and completely whiff on some run plays. The play that sticks out was the infamous hit on Fitzgerald Toussaint by Jadeveon Clowney, but Lewan swears it was not his fault. Although it does not happen much, when Lewan gets beat there is almost no way for him to recover. Part of this is because Lewan gets off the ball quickly and launches towards his target. When he misses, it ends badly.