2016 NFL Draft Profile: OG Cody Whitehair

In this 2016 NFL Draft profile, we analyze the strengths and weaknesses of offensive guard Cody Whitehair out of Kansas State.

At 6’4 and 301 pounds, Whitehair is as strong as they come for an offensive guard. His versatility to play as either an offensive guard or tackle will prove to be an incredible skill-set for any team looking for an athlete capable of being called up for various parts to fill on an offensive line.

He’s as durable as they come as he played in every single game for Kansas State in his collegiate career. He does very well in protecting the quarterback and has everything that is takes to be an anchor on an offensive line for years to come. His draft stock is steadily rising since he has a good head on his shoulders and carries himself well in the locker room.

2016 nfl draft /

Jan 28, 2016; Mobile, AL, USA; South squad offensive guard Cody Whitehair of Kansas State (55) battles offensive tackle Spencer Drango of Baylor (58) during a drill during Senior Bowl practice at Ladd-Peebles Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Glenn Andrews-USA TODAY Sports

Whitehair earned All-Big 12 honors last season which was quite impressive in his final year of college. Not only does he have the stats to prove his worth but he would be able to take his career to the next level easily under the right leadership and guidance. He has all the attributes to make it an easy decision for NFL teams looking for a hard-working offensive lineman that will do anything he’s asked to execute.

STRENGTHS

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Whitehair is a natural born leader as he was a team captain last season due to his extraordinary work ethics and ability to rally those around him to deliver.

He puts the team above everything else and loves to outperform his teammates on a daily basis.

Since he’s incredibly strong, he’s able to move opposing defensive linemen with ease and precision, being in total control the moment the football is snapped.

His versatility to be a “plug and play” offensive lineman will make his draft stock very high as teams know he brings quality depth to a roster immediately upon arrival.

WEAKNESSES

Whitehair doesn’t do well against speedy edge rushers that tend to get the best of him. Lets emotions get the best of him as he’s an all-around calm kind of player that will need to show more aggression if he’s going to match-up against trash-talking defenders who will get inside his head during the snap count.

He’ll need to work on his ability to establish the run as his techniques to create gaps aren’t effective due to taking a bit longer than usual to create opportune lanes. Whitehair could be a starter in the NFL next season but it could hinder his progress as teams would be well advised to let him develop first before bring thrown to the wolves as it might be a rocky transition.

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DRAFT DAY PREDICTION

Whitehair is undoubtedly a first-round talent but with the way draft day can be unpredictable, he might very well slip to the early second-round of this year’s draft. As teams start to make their picks within the top half of the order, any in need of a quality offensive lineman will look at other options as they’re coming off the board. As to which Whitehair could be available at some point in the middle or late first round.

More jets: Jets should draft offensive lineman in first round

Expect to see Whitehair possibly drafted in the first round but no later than early in the second round. Under the right training and coaching, Whitehair has all the attributes to be a quality offensive lineman for years to come.

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