Offensive tackles in the 2024 NFL Draft are a crucial need for half the league. Several tackles are projected to go in the first round. Amongst those players is Taliese Fuaga, a right tackle out of Oregon State who has been trending up draft boards recently.
Fuaga was originally a three-star recruit who went on to appear in 39 games in his three-year career at Oregon State. He started 26 of those games. With around 1,500 snaps, he gave up zero sacks and only five quarterback hits in the span of his career. He’s been the top trending offensive tackle in college football the past few weeks.
Taliese Fuaga CARVING a way to the endzone. RT1 in the Draft is so much fun to watch. A chip, then climbs to the 2nd level to open up the endzone for Martinez. pic.twitter.com/R7eCWpVjO7
— Josh Taylor (@JoshTaylorFB) November 19, 2023
Player Bio
Name: Taliese Fuaga
Jersey: No. 75
Position: Right Tackle
School: Oregon State
Class: Redshirt Junior
Height: 6-foot-6
Weight: 335 lbs.
Games Watched: Boise State (2022), USC (2022), Fresno State (2022), UCLA (2023), Utah (2023), San Diego State (2023)
Major Injury History: None
Player Breakdown
Pass Blocking (16/20)
Displays good footwork in pass set and plays with good natural balance. His natural leverage and strength allow him to anchor against the bull rush. He also packs a violent initial punch that can stand up pass rushers. Moves lightly with quick feet as a pass protector and has the ability to mirror against quickness against any pass rush on the edge. Has great IQ and reaction to diagnose stunts to switch off if needed.
Run Blocking (18/20)
His best ability is in the run game where he’s a true mauler playing with a nasty demeanor. Displays great hand placement inside while getting off the line of scrimmage. Great at giving help and getting to the second level. Truly consistent at keeping his motor going through the whistle. His acceleration and power off the ball with the lower pad that he demonstrates are dynamic.
Length (12/15)
Fuaga’s wingspan is long enough that it will allow him to stay consistent as a pass protector on the edge and get proper hand placement first off the snap.
Footwork (12/15)
Showcases elite foot speed for his size to gather depth in his sets, pulls, and steepen angles against speed on the edge. Consistent footwork off the ball in iso and counter type of plays.
Athleticism (12/15)
Very agile for his size and ability to withstand any speed or move at the edge. Has the athleticism to transition to guard if needed and can be a mauler inside. Don’t be shocked if you see him pulling more often in the NFL.
Injury History (15/15)
No significant and noticeable injury.
Weaknesses
Fuaga gets impatient in his pass set at times with him lunging and reaching towards the defender. In the second level, he can overpursue his defender with his momentum which allows them to make a tackle. Needs to demonstrate consistency in those instances.
Player Summary
Has the ability to be the next Trent Williams but on the right side of the offensive line. May not be as fast, but his ability to get to the second level and maul a hole opening is identical. His athleticism will allow him to be successful in the NFL. He’s a grader in the run game and a good asset in the passing game. Fuaga has Pro Bowl starter ability, and thanks to his frame, a mean punch, and a heavy anchor, I’d expect he lives up to that potential.
Rooke Projection: Solid Starter at Right Tackle or Guard
Third-Year Projection: Pro Bowler
Final Grade: 85/100 (Top-20 Pick)
Player Comp: Penei Sewell
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