With the Dallas Cowboys moving on from La’El Collins and the injury history of long-time tackle Tyron Smith; Cowboys fans shouldn’t be surprised if the Cowboys decide to address the offensive line early on in the 2022 draft. Northern Iowa offensive tackle Trevor Penning has been a three-year starter and has built up quite the reputation as a player with a mean streak. He is known for finishing people in the ground, and it was on display at the Senior Bowl.
He also had a chance to show his athleticism for NFL scouts and executives at the NFL combine where he impressed with his athleticism. The monkey in the room? He’s projected to go high, comes from a smaller school and wasn’t invited to Texas for an official visit. Did the Cowboys make a mistake in not doing so? Is he impressive enough to be drafted despite those warning signs?
Measurables and Stats
Listed Height: 6-foot-7
Listed Weight: 325 pounds
Jersey Number: 70
Stats (2021): 11 games played
Film Study Information:
Games Watched: James Madison (2019), Iowa State (2021), North Dakota State (2021)
Best Game: North Dakota State (2021)
Worst Game: James Madison (2019)
Physical Skills Evaluation:
Balance: Can end up on the ground a fair amount due to letting defenders get hands inside him. Becomes susceptible to push-pull moves.
Hand Placement: Too often he gives up leverage to the defender and lets them get their hands inside them. Does not strike with consistent hand placement. Too often is striking wide of the intended target and gives up leverage because of it. Can be erratic with his hand placement, too wide, in the defensive lineman’s face.
Power: Attacks with phenomenal power at the point of attack, if he gets a hold of you, you’re likely going for a ride. Plays with a bully mentality loves finishing people in the dirt. Able to absorb power and redirect it at a high level.
Movement Skills: Fantastic mover in space, highlighted with a 9.96 RAS score. Had elite scoring in the 40-yard dash, 20-yard split, 10…