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The offensive line has been a headache for several years now and as such the Steelers will be looking at all of the offensive line prospects in the draft.
The Steelers seem to have an affinity for offensive linemen that can play multiple positions. It's probably because over the last few years the Steelers line has been bitten hard by the injury bug time and time again so having someone who can play both guard and tackle, and on both sides of the line has proven to be an invaluable commodity.
One such player in this draft who has experience bouncing around the offensive line is Georgia left tackle Cordy Glenn. He played his freshman season starting at right guard, his sophomore year starting at both right and left guard, his junior he started at left guard, and played his entire senior year at left tackle. Some people look at him as a guard-only prospect while other think he can also play right tackle. I feel, with a little refinement, he can play left tackle.
Pros: Like most men of his size Glenn is the definition of a road-grader. When he gets his arms locked onto a defender it's pretty much over for him. He's not just big but has a massive frame that easily supports his weight. He also has quick feet and is good at getting to the second level. Glenn was a 4-year starter at UGA in the always tough SEC and has played right guard, left guard, and spent his final year playing left tackle. It's that sort of versatility that will make him an attractive option to the Steelers.
His 5.15 time in the 40-yard dash at the Combine on Saturday is among the top quarter of all offensive linemen, and his 31 reps of 225 pounds shows he's got the strength to play the position.
Cons: Glenn relies on his physical abilities far too much and because of it he plays with sloppy technique far too often. He's a waist bender which makes him susceptible to speed rushers which is why he'll have to start out playing guard. He is also slow off of the snap. These are things that can be correctable but it means he is far from a finished product.
Draft Stock: Right now Glenn will probably go somewhere in the latter half of the first round. He could go as early as the 17th pick to Cincy who needs an upgrade at guard over Nate Livings and may need to replace Bobbie Williams if he leaves in free agency. Also it seems like Cincinnati has an affinity for UGA players taking several of them in the early rounds during Marvin Lewis' tenure. San Diego, Chicago, Tennessee, and even Detroit could all take Glenn ahead of the Steelers. Most teams are going to look at Cordy Glenn as a guard-only prospect with the potential to maybe play right tackle.
Final Word: I really like Glenn's durability and starting experience, and you can't teach size. Because of his massive frame he can play at 350lbs., but if he did loose the extra 20lbs. of weight he is carrying I think it would really help him compete for the left tackle spot. Most of his faults are fixable with the right coaching. There's a chance he will be available with the Steelers pick at 24 but if they really like him the may have to trade up 4 or 5 spots to get him. Because offensive line help is such a priority I would be all for that as long as they don't have to give up a second round pick to do so. Glenn could immediately come in and secure one guard spot and could play tackle as well if needed or be groomed for it in the future.
The top 2012 NFL Draft prospects available for the 2012 NFL Draft
By Charlie Campbell
Cordy Glenn, OT/G, Georgia
3/2/12: Combine, pro-days and visits: Glenn had an excellent 40 time of 5.15 and 1.76 in the 10-yard split. Considering that he weighs 345 pounds, his 40 time is extremely impressive. On the field, Glenn was solid, but he still has some room for improvement in his footwork.
2/21/12: Regular season and post-season summary: At the Senior Bowl, Glenn was moved around the line from right tackle to guard to left tackle. He had a quality week and held his own against the tough pass rushers from the South's defensive line. Some teams could consider Glenn for left tackle, but he would probably be better off at guard or right tackle.
The Bulldogs' left tackle had a strong senior season protecting signal caller Aaron Murray. Glenn is a powerful run blocker who has decent athleticism. He also has extremely long arms that help him to recover and keep pass rushers from turning the corner. Glenn started out the year poorly as Boise State's linemen, and specifically defensive end Shea McClellin, had their way with him.
After that contest, Glenn played much better. He had his hands full in the SEC Championship with LSU and its speed rushers. Glenn can be dominant inside at guard. The games against Boise State, LSU and Michigan State illustrate that Glenn could be misfit for left tackle. The 6-foot-5, 345-pounder was a guard before moving to tackle as a senior. Scouts say that he can play a man- or zone-blocking scheme in the NFL.
NFL Matches: Glenn could fit a few teams in the final 20 to 32. The Titans need offensive line help, and he would be a good fit. The Browns (22nd overall) could use a right tackle, and Glenn would be a good option for them. Chicago, Pittsburgh and Detroit need offensive line help and will consider him as well.
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