Buffalo Bills: 5 offensive linemen to target in the 2022 NFL Draft
T/G Jaxson Kirkland, Washington
Measurables: 6-7, 310 lbs.
Jaxson Kirkland is an exciting prospect because of his unique build for someone who plays mainly guard at the college level. Standing at 6’7″, Kirkland has played some games at tackle for Washington but had 25 starts at guard over his first three seasons in Washington.
Kirkland being a very lean guard does bring some unique skills to the table. He is very wide at guard because of his long arms and has a very wide base when in pass protection. With his size, he also has an excellent understanding of leverage and balance, so he rarely gets caught in the wrong position by any defensive lineman.
Some of Kirkland’s fundamentals are much further along than you would expect from a college guard, which is why so many scouts like him. He executes so well because he has excellent hand placement when both run and pass blocking. His hand placement and extreme energy help him finish plays and drive through blocks consistently. While he may not be the type of guy to knock defensive linemen off their feet, he consistently wins matchups.
WA LT Jaxson Kirkland is a solid LT who plays strong. Not elite athlete but doesn't give up edge easily, putting hands on #, using 6'6" frame to move DL around pocket. Latches on 2nd-level targets, finish plays. Gets out of stance well to crash the edge in run game. #SnapScout22 pic.twitter.com/8NMvn8sVBx
— Chad Reuter (@chad_reuter) June 2, 2021
Kirkland struggles against some of the most powerful players he faces and lacks the athleticism to have any sudden reactions that may help him recover or make a block.
Kirkland is an interesting case because of his unique size and how it both helps and hinders him. While he still may cost a high pick, his versatility is worth taking a chance on. If he does not start right away, he can operate as a tackle and guard off the bench, effectively giving the Buffalo Bills a two-for-one deal on the bench.