Patrick Paul NFL Draft Scouting Report

Size:

Height: 6’7” | Weight: 315 lbs

Accomplishments:

All-AAC (2021, 2022) • Team captain (2022) •  Three-star recruit

“Patrick Paul has all of the tools and ability to be a steady and reliable starting-caliber OT.” 

Strengths:

• Dependable pass-protector
• Elite length and mass
• High ceiling; high-level flashes 

Concerns:

• Inconsistent footwork
• High pad level 
• Unrefined run-blocker

In-play Film Analysis: 

A decorated and reliable starter for Houston, Patrick Paul is as intriguing a prospect as they come. With 32 starts going into his second-to-last year of eligibility, Paul garners some serious attention the second you turn the film on.

Paul carries a massive frame conjoined by high hips and rare arm length. These traits are what Paul has been able to rely on as one of the best tackles in the AAC over the last two years. With that being said, these characteristics alone will not insert Paul into the conversation of the top tackles in the class without improving his all-around game—but it sure is a good start. 

There are times, however, when Paul’s frame can give him trouble. With such high hips, Paul can struggle to find natural leverage in the run game. Because of this, Paul has a hard time creating forward drive out of his stance, often resorting to walling off defenders with his size rather than displacing them to further open up running lanes. Paul’s path to success as a run blocker will come with time—getting him into an NFL strength program will do wonders for improving his overall strength, but the overhead issues revolving around his footwork and technique will drastically improve under NFL guidance and coaching as well. If able to improve these qualities, Paul will find himself as a valuable swing tackle at the next level. 

One of Paul’s best traits comes in the passing game. He does a fantastic job of understanding and using his size to his advantage but doesn’t solely rely on it. With his long stride, he’s able to get from point A to point B in his pass set with ease. He forces defenders to run the hoop and is able to use his length to run them by. He’s patient with his set knowing that, with his size, rushers will have to react to him, meaning he can set at his own pace and under control. He plays much better within his frame in the passing game and is a very natural striker with his hands. 

You simply can not teach the size and length that Paul has. As an NFL staff, if you trust your process to develop offensive linemen, Paul should be an incredibly exciting prospect. Whatever way Paul can improve his game going into his fifth season will bring a considerable amount of intrigue. 

Prospect Projection: Day 3 — Scheme-specific contributor

Last Updated: June 7, 2023

Exposures: Texas Tech (2022), SMU (2022), Louisiana (2022)

Patrick Paul’s NFL Draft Scouting Report will be updated by Draft Network throughout the season. Add him to your big board here.