Indianapolis Colts star left guard Quenton Nelson has already set himself up for a potential Hall-of-Fame future in the NFL.
But as we’ve gone along over the last year, many have been asking why Nelson could not just slide over one spot and play left tackle for the Colts. Some have been on board and some have not.
One guy in particular that has consistently been on the “Nelson to left tackle” train has been JMV. When Anthony Castonzo went down towards the back end of the 2020 season, JMV established that idea and did not give up on it.
Critics of that potential plan made the argument that Nelson has transitioned to the NFL so well at left guard, so you shouldn’t mess with it.
It’s not the first time this has happened to Nelson though.
“Big Q” was almost a lock to become the starting left tackle at the University of Notre Dame. He ended up becoming one of the best left guards in NCAA history.
The reason he ultimately was not Brian Kelly’s LT? Liam Eichenberg.
The monstrous 6’6” 302 pounder Eichenberg had a historic career in South Bend. He now turns his attention to the limelight as he will be a hot commodity in the 2021 NFL Draft.
Would Chris Ballard and the Colts be interested in Eichenberg with the 21st overall pick?
Friday on The Ride with JMV, John welcomed Brandon Thorn, the offensive line scout from Bleacher Report, to see what he had to say on Eichenberg and the rest of the options for the Colts.
“I was a pretty big fan of Eichenberg’s tape,” Thorn said. “He has smooth and efficient footwork out of his stance, impressive weight distribution in pass protection, and doesn’t overextend or get off-balanced too often. He’s a tremendous finisher and good processor. There’s a lot to like about his profile.”
Thorn told JMV that not only does Indianapolis pair with Eichenberg because he’d be playing next to a former college teammate, but Frank Reich’s schemes fit the mold of who the former Fighting Irishman is.
There’s just one problem.
Eichenberg isn’t necessarily at the top of the left tackle pre-draft ranks. He seems to be projected as an early t0 middle second round selection.
So if Indianapolis does not pick him at #21, they run the risk of him not being there at #54.
Pick your poison.
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