Everyone knows that NFL general managers make their paychecks by their success in the later rounds of the draft and uncovering those hidden gems that can push a team over the top. With the bulk of the scouting just getting underway and many names being brought to the forefront who weren’t exactly on the tip of anyone’s tongues when the collegiate season started, this new segment called Under the Radar will explore just what scouts find attractive about certain prospects who may be available beyond the glamour rounds of the draft.

A fast rising offensive tackle on this list is Indiana Hoosier Rodger Saffold who certainly has the ideal measurements at 6’4” 316lbs. to excel at the left tackle position in the NFL. Saffold first burst onto the scene as a viable NFL player with his performance during practices for the East-West Shrine Game where he showcased great athleticism with fluid balance and movement often getting the best of those considered to be premier pass rushers in this year’s class. His excellent pre-draft experience continued at the NFL Scouting Combine where he did nothing to really ‘wow’ scouts, but his lower body explosion showed in his vertical and broad jumps surprising scouts with his power. Where Saffold really impresses is with his technique which is flawless always maintaining the proper angles in his back even during lateral movement.

One area where questions come up in the evaluation of his stock is with his physique which is not stunning to put it kindly. Saffold doesn’t really look like much of an athlete which is why many project him inside to guard at the next level, but his light feet and great balance will make him quite versatile in the NFL. A number of teams looking for depth along their offensive fronts will be thrilled to see him still on the board near the middle to latter portion of round number two.

Plenty of names will be called during April’s NFL Draft that are seemingly from out of left field, but don’t Saffold’s be one of them. Keep looking out for more Under the Radar players shooting up draft boards or quietly lurking in the depth of this class that could make a huge impact over the coming years on Sundays.

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