National Football League

2017 NFL Draft: Temple Dion Dawkins Scouting Report

Published Jun. 30, 2017 6:28 p.m. ET

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Temple’s Dion Dawkins is a talented offensive tackle prospect who is in the mix to come off the board in the first 3 rounds.

Dion Dawkins features a thick frame with the long arms needed to create space. His thickness helps him generate power and makes it tough for defenders to move him off his spot. Dawkins is a solid athlete for his size with the ability to reach the second level of the defense.

He does a good job approaching the second level and the majority of his blocks with balance. This is a nasty player who looks to deliver a blow drive the defender backwards. He’s committed to gaining inside hand placement and velcroing.

Dawkins is quick enough off the snap to get proper angles and seal the defender from the play. His arm length also comes into play here where he’s able to keep the defensive player off his frame.

More from With the First Pick

The concern with Dawkins game is that he’s inconsistent with his technique and pad level. In pass protection, he often keeps his hands down which is a wasted motion and makes it easier for defenders to get into his body.

Dawkins will also bend at the waste too often which impacts his balance. This waste bend forces his shoulders out over his base making it more difficult for him to change direction. Outside of bending at the waste, Dawkins also tends to raise his pad level which hurts his ability to anchor after contact.

The last concern surrounds his focus and the amount of offside penalties he has drawn. Dawkins must remain focused and understand that every yard counts.

His overall stock as a prospect is solid thanks to his raw ability. The majority of his issues aren’t tied to a lack of athleticism and can be corrected with more coaching.

Current Draft Status: Early 3rd Round

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