2017 NFL Draft prospect profile: Utah LT Garett Bolles
Garett Bolles could be the answer for the Houston Texans’ problems at right tackle.
The Houston Texans may end up finding their next starting right tackle in the 2017 NFL Draft if they end up selecting Utah’s Garett Bolles.
Bolles has been a popular pick in mock drafts from around the internet when it comes to theTexans, who hold the 25th overall pick in April’s draft.
Bolles is the number 28th ranked prospect on Daniel Jeremiah’s big board.
"Bolles started for only one year at offensive tackle for the Utes. He has good size and length for the position. In pass protection, he is quick out of his stance and bends naturally. He has a sharp, tight punch and a firm anchor. He does get caught oversetting at times, which produces some inside pressure on the quarterback. He has good football awareness considering his limited experience. In the run game, he has knock-off power and shows some nastiness to finish to and through the whistle. He does get overextended at times, but I love his tenacity. Overall, Bolles has some things to clean up but he has starting left tackle ability."
Bolles measures in at 6’5″, 300 pounds, according to his profile on the University of Utah’s football page. He declared for the draft after his Junior year with the Utes.
Bolles was first team All-Pac-12 in 2016 after starting 13 games for Utah.
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Bolles is very athletic, has great feet and possesses great balance. He shouldn’t have a problem dealing with quick edge rushers.
The concern with Bolles is that he might need some time to develop in the NFL since he only played one year of major college football at transferring from a junior college. Another concern is that he hasn’t filled out his frame yet and that his legs aren’t big and strong enough to drive defenders back.
While Bolles played left tackle at Utah, if the Texans end up drafting him, they would likely have him play on the right side. This would be vital for his development, since he wouldn’t have to match up with some of the best pass rushers in the NFL. He could learn from veteran left tackle Duane Brown and always move back to the left side whenever Brown retires or moves on.
If there aren’t any quarterbacks for the Texans to take with the 25th pick and Bolles is available, I wouldn’t hesitate in selecting him. Despite the concerns that surround him, I think his quickness and footwork alone would allow him to come in right away and make an immediate impact.