Indianapolis Colts: Five Late Round Draft Options
By Kyle Nishida
OG Joe Thuney – North Carolina State
Thuney might be the most versatile offensive lineman of this entire draft class. He played all five positions along the offensive line in four years at NC State. He has a lot of skill, but lacks some key physical qualities needed to be a successful NFL lineman. However, he has the potential to build those physical traits and skills.
Thuney was a three-year starter for the Wolfpack. He primarily played left tackle, but as mentioned before, he has spent time playing the other offensive line positions.
Scouts specifically love Thuney’s run blocking ability. His initial engagements with defensive linemen are strong which allows him to control his opponent and open up running lanes. He is very smart and is very difficult to confuse with twists between two defensive linemen. He also possesses enough athleticism to stay in front of pass rushers.
The issues scouts have with him are his physical traits. He has a lean body frame, but he does not rely on it. He uses his body weight to block opponents by leaning up against them. This creates a balance issue that opponents can take advantage of. Scouts want to see him have his feet set underneath him and rely on his strength, not his body weight. Scouts also feel his hands are too small and his arms are too short.
The Indianapolis Colts love versatile players along the offensive line. Thuney fits that description perfectly. They need build their offensive line depth. With Thuney’s skill, he could easily back up anyone of the Colts starters, and then possibly become a starter in the future.
Thuney could be drafted as early as the third round. However, many scouts feel he will fall into the fourth or possibly fifth round. He is certainly a viable option for the Indianapolis Colts in either one of those rounds. Seeing as how the offensive guard class is low on talent in this year’s draft, the Colts should at selecting him in the fourth round.
Next: OG Rees Odhiambo