The need for good offensive linemen never wanes in the NFL, and this year’s draft class has no shortage of talent at the position. As the 2024 NFL Draft begins on Thursday, April 25, Alabama offensive tackle JC Latham will be waiting in the wings as a projected first-round pick. Latham measured 6-foot-5 and 342 pounds at the Combine, and spent three years as a right tackle at Alabama, earning All-SEC honors last season.
JC Latham: Scouting Report
Latham’s long arms and massive hands are standouts in his scouting reports, and he allowed just two sacks in 2023. He also led the Tide in block rates on run plays, and while he doesn’t match the height of Joe Alt and Olu Fashanu, his massive frame gives him plenty of strength in blocking. NBC’s Eric Froton breaks down Latham’s NFL potential and playing style:
With a double wide XXL frame, Latham has unnatural mirroring ability and explosiveness for his size. He throws a punishing initial jab that would rival world class sumo wrestlers and once he gets a grip of defenders they become instantly neutralized. He does have a tendency to lean into contact and can be beaten with speed around the hoop, leaving him vulnerable to inside counters against upper echelon pass rushers.
Mock Draft landing spots
Mel Kiper’s ESPN mock sends Latham to the Chargers with the 11th overall pick as part of a trade with the Vikings. The Ringer’s Danny Kelly sees the Chargers taking Latham as early as No. 5 overall to help bolster their run game. The Athletic’s Bruce Feldman sees him going a bit later at No. 24 overall to the Packers through a trade with Dallas, writing, “Latham is a giant, like fellow SEC super heavyweight Amarius Mims, but he has a lot more experience and seasoning. He has started the last 27 games for the Tide at right tackle. Latham also could likely slide inside as well if needed.”