WEEI.com will continue to offer daily insight and analysis regarding options that may be available to the Patriots when it comes to the 2015 NFL draft. Here is one in a series of profiles of players who could be on the board when it’s time for the Patriots to make a selection.
Laken Tomlinson is considered one of the best pass-blocking linemen in the draft. (Joe Robbins/Getty Images)
LAKEN TOMLINSON
Position: Guard
School: Duke
Height: 6-foot-3
Weight: 330 pounds
Achievements: 2014 AP All-America first team, 2014 All-ACC first team, 2014 team captain, 2013 All-ACC second team, 2012 Academic All-ACC, 2011 Sporting News Freshman All-America, 2011 Academic All-ACC
What he brings: Tomlinson is considered one of the best pass blockers in the draft, as he did not allow a sack in the last two years. Scouts praise his ability to be a force in power run schemes. There are some concerns that he may lack the speed and athleticism necessary to be effective in lateral run protection and moving to make a block. Scouts and experts believe that when he is able to square up and engage blockers at a favorable angle, there are few offensive linemen better than him in the draft. However, at poor angles and when dealing with movement and athletic defenders, he may have trouble responding.
Where the Patriots could get him: Rounds 2-3
Notes: Tomlinson was named team captain as a senior in 2014. Has not missed a game in his four years with the Blue Devils since redshirting his 2010 freshman year. Tomlinson wants to be a doctor after playing football.
Related articles:
Yahoo Sports: Tomlinson combines education and football
Chicago Tribune: Tomlinson believes in his ability
Video: Here’s Tomlinson speaking to the media at the NFL scouting combine.