2017 NFL Draft Profile: Antonio Garcia, Troy

Trevor Ruszkowksi-USA TODAY Sports

Antonio Garcia- Offensive Tackle, Troy Trojans

HEIGHT: 6’6”

WEIGHT: 302

ARM LENTH: 33 3/8”

HANDS: 9 7/8”

PROJECTION: 2^ND-3^RD ROUND

40 YD DASH (NFL Combine): 5.15 sec

BENCH PRESS (NFL Combine): 24

VERTICAL (NFL Combine): 31”

BROAD JUMP (NFL Combine): 108”

3 CONE DRILL (NFL Combine): 7.98 sec

20 YD SHUTTLE (NFL Combine): 4.94 sec

ANALYSIS

STRENGTHS: Garcia is extremely athletic and can get out in space quickly with his speed. That natural speed should bode well when he adds size to his frame. Getting to the second level isn’t an issue, as his speed and footwork help him take a good path to reach any linebacker. He’s a grinding competitor and never gives up on a play regardless of the outcome. Even if he doesn’t control his defender initially, he continues moving his feet to gain an advantage. When engaged, he usually keeps his eyes open for any twists coming his way so he can pass his defender inside and take on the oncoming defender.

WEAKNESSES: His lack of size is extremely noticeable against most defenders. Often times he grabs his defender instead of punching in pass protection. When that happens, he tends to get knocked back too close to the quarterback and will lead to penalties in the future. Sometimes, Garcia worries about getting beat around the edge and will backpedal instead of sliding. This results in him getting knocked into the quarterback’s lap because he is off balance. Using better leverage will be extremely necessary for him to have a chance in controlling his defender. Needs a lot of work with hand punches as he tends to get his hands pushed aside with ease by any defender.

FINAL THOUGHTS: Garcia has a great frame to add size, which should help solve most of his issues. His natural athleticism is evident on film and should entice a team to take a chance on him. He will need to work on his hand placement in both the run and pass games to avoid grabbing and getting pushed aside with ease.