Jalen Rivers, IOL, Miami
Size:
Height: 6056
Weight: 319
Arm: 34 ⅞”
Hand: 10”
Accomplishments:
Second Team All-ACC (2023)
“Jalen Rivers is a physically strong offensive lineman whose success at guard/tackle showcases a well-rounded lineman that will add depth to an NFL front five.”
Strengths:
Alignment versatility (LG/LT)
Patient
Powerful frame
IDs stunts/twists well
Concerns:
Leg drive as a run blocker
Athleticism
Utilization of length
Film Analysis:
Jalen Rivers is a physically strong offensive lineman whose success at guard/tackle showcases a well-rounded lineman that will add depth to an NFL front five. He was primarily aligned at left guard in 2022 only to bump out to left tackle in 2023. Alignment versatility is a positive in finalizing his potential impact at the next level.
As a run blocker, Rivers is not a man-mover but plays with the requisite technique and power to displace defensive linemen. Rivers does not fire off the snap, but he works to gain leverage quickly in the play. Showcases the ability to flip his hips and seal linemen away from the alley. Has shown occasional work as a puller, but is best living on a vertical plane right at the line. Tough at the point of attack and plays until the whistle.
In pass pro, Rivers has two identities—one at guard, one at tackle. At tackle, Rivers is a below-average athlete but plays with the balance and technique to keep pass rushers in front of his nose. Not a dynamic mover but appreciation is needed for his rapid development after playing guard the prior seasons. Inside at guard, Rivers’ wide body and strength showcase well. His footwork is above average for the position and he has the nuance to counter varying body types on the inside. Is best with bumpers to either shoulder at guard, and the inside is ultimately where he could find his clearest path to snaps at the next level.
Concerns remain about his overall athleticism if he lives at tackle, but become less of a concern should a team draft him to play guard. Profile in space also remains a work in progress with such minimal snaps at left tackle and as a puller. With such a powerful frame, I’d like to see Rivers initiate his legs more often in the ground game. His lower half will stop at times when met with contact, instead of continuing to churn past the stalemate.
Overall, Rivers is a versatile prospect who projects as a potential swing tackle or sixth offensive lineman for a roster.
Prospect Projection: Day 3 — Scheme Specific Contributor
Written by: Ryan Fowler
