So far in the offensive line portion of the draft profile series, we have taken the time to look at a couple of different tackle prospects that could be on the board by the time the Cardinals are set to make their pick at #13. Jonathan Martin was our target of examination yesterday and 57% of you said the Cardinals should pass on him. Many were worried that Martin may be a bit of a reach with the 13th overall pick.
Today, we will get a chance to look at one of Martin's former teammates. David DeCastro is far and away the best guard prospect in this year's draft class. In fact, many consider him to be one of the better interior lineman to be entering the draft in many years.
Assuming he has not been selected yet, should the Arizona Cardinals consider drafting him?
One of the first things we should note about DeCastro is that he does not immediately fill a high position of need for Arizona. That being said, the Cardinals have always drafted using the best player available approach. So depending on who is still undrafted and where they have DeCastro on their board, he very well could be the pick.
At 6'5", 316 pounds and 32 3/8" arms, DeCastro has all the tools teams can look for in a guard. At the NFL Combine, he ran a 5.43 40-yard dash, he did 34 reps of 225 pounds on the bench and he also ran a 7.3 flat in the 3 cone drill. That time was best among all the offensive linemen at the Combine.
In terms of his performances as a run blocker and as a pass protector, DeCastro is superb. Protecting the best quarterback in the nation may look easy, but according to Dan Kadar of mockingthedraft.com, DeCastro reportedly only gave up one sack in his entire collegiate career.
Here are some other notes from Kadar about DeCastro as an offensive lineman:
Run blocking: Is adept at working power, man or zone blocking. Knows how to work angles to his advantage in the run game. DeCastro plays with a lot of aggression in the run game and likes to finish off blocks. This causes some issues for DeCastro at times because he'll overextend get beaten. Was used a lot on the move, particularly working forward on the second level. Has some minor strength issues and can get knocked off balance.
Final word: As good of a guard prospect as there has been in years. DeCastro is quick off the line of scrimmage which helps him get under defensive linemen. He knows how to properly use his hands to keep defenders away. Instinctive against the pass rush. Plays with a nasty disposition.
Kadar goes on to discuss some of DeCastro's technical work, such as the use of his hands, his arm extension and keeping his eyes downfield. He describes these traits in DeCastro's game as being, "flawless".
In case you don't believe him, take a look at this video of DeCastro going to work in the 2010 season:
Now that you have some notes on DeCastro, what are your thoughts of him possibly being the Cardinals' pick at #13? Is he not only going to be the best player available, but also fill a need?
Leave your vote in the ballot box and tell us what your thoughts are in the comments section below.
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