One of the most exciting parts of the offseason for all 32 NFL clubs is analyzing and watching how their newest members via the NFL Draft start shaping out. At this point it is still far too early to make any honest assessments or determinations. We wont really have a clear idea in our minds until pads are put on, and these rookies see their first live game action in the preseason and more importantly the regular season.
Today, we are going to take a closer look at the San Francisco 49ers first selection of the 2018 NFL Drat, Notre Dame tackle Mike McGlinchey. The purpose of this scouting report is to analyze the strengths and weaknesses, as well as what we can potentially be excited about in the future, and what we might also be concerned about as well. Keep in mind that most, if not all of this scouting report is based on the player’s collegiate performance with sprinkles from the combine and any other NFL Draft event. With that said, let’s get right to it!
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Measurables
Name: Mike McGlinchey
School: Notre Dame
Position: Tackle
Height: 6’8”
Weight: 315 lbs.
Arms: 34”
Hands: 10”
Bench Press: 24 reps
Vertical Jump: 28.5”
Broad Jump: 105.0
Film
Fun Fact
First cousin of NFL and Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan!
PROS
- Strong, physical tackle, who has natural speed along the line of scrimmage.
- Trusts his lower body, and has controlled and balanced footwork.
- Moves fluidly in the hips, and takes on blocks in both the run and passing attack.
- Based on his film, he plays his best in a zone and gap schemes.
- Has ample experience successfully taking on double teams.
- Uses strong footwork to push defenders and pass rushers into a backward peddle.
- Physical bruiser who can create and open holes to support the run game.
- Strong football instincts and senses when the defense could be blitzing.
- Has strong balance and distributes his strength evenly with his upper and lower body.
- Strong leader and model teammate. Was named team captain two straight seasons.
- A strong fit for Kyle Shanahan’s offense with a potential to take over the left tackle position in the next couple of seasons.
CONS:
- Will need to continue to bulk up and add more mass to his frame at the next level.
- Has been beaten by power pass rushers along the edge at times and will need to develop a quicker first step off the snap.
- On tape he sometimes will lean into blocks against a pass rusher.
- Will need to continue to work on his timing with his blocks in one-to-one battles.
- Has strong hands, but needs to trust them more and clean his techniques against stiff, speed blockers along the edge.
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Summary
Overall, I thought Mike McGlinchey was a fabulous choice for a number of reasons. The first being Jimmy Garoppolo. Protect Jimmy at all costs! Besides that though, there is a lot to like about McGlinchey. His strong style playing in zone and gap schemes fits what Kyle Shanahan is building in Santa Clara. McGlinchey’s experience and football instincts make him a likely week one starter, and that is exactly what you would want out of your first round pick. His advanced techniques along the line, and his ability to contribute in a positive matter in both the run and pass games is the reason he was the number one rated tackle in this year’s draft class.
I still believe that he needs to bulk up a little more and add some mass to his frame as he prepares for professional football. He will also need to fine tune his first step against power pass rushers along the edge. Still though, there is so much more to be excited about with McGlinchey. Any concerns that come to mind can be coached and improved upon with time and experience. Another thing I really love about McGlinchey is his leadership abilities both on and off the field. McGlinchey has zero character concerns and was named a team captain two straight seasons with the Irish.
A well-rounded football player who is going to most likely start in Week 1, and protect the most important person in the entire organization is a win in my book. I have high yet reasonable expectations for McGlinchey. I expect a good rookie season with much room still to grow!
What are YOUR thoughts on tackle Mike McGlinchey? Does he start Week 1? Is he the future left tackle? Will he be voted to the Pro Bowl within the next five years? Please share in the comments below!