Eric Winston (09/2004)

Position:

OT

[official bio]

School:

Univ. of Miami

Height:

6' 7"

Weight:

316 lbs.

General Variables:

33 out of 40

Size:

9

Strength:

8

Speed:

8

Athleticism:

8

Position Variables:

29 out of 40

Run blocking:

8

Pass blocking:

7

Footwork/Technique:

7

Attitude:

7

Positives:

Eric Winston came to Miami as a TE, and you can see that in how he plays.  He’s very athletic, and although he’s added upwards of 35 lbs. to his frame, he’s shown no drop off in athletic talent.  Last season, he really blossomed as a player, demonstrating  a great balance of dominant run blocking and, more importantly, developing into a very good pass protector.  Winston isn’t an overpowering player, like Jamaal Brown, but he’s very sound technically, and is able to get his job done with skill and athleticism, rather than raw power.  He’s got plenty of room to continue growing, getting stronger, and with only one year at OT, this could be a breakout year.  He’s got good speed, possessing an ability to pull and pick up blitzers, as well as any tackle in the country.

Negatives:

Winston is still learning how to play offensive tackle.  He made a huge jump last spring, stepping into the starting role, but there’s no doubt that he’s got a lot of learning to do.  Winston also needs to play much stronger, particularly in his upper body, where he’s a little lanky.  From an athletic standpoint, Winston is very good, but physically, and technically, he’s still got a lot of developing to do.

Overall:

This kid, along with Jon Scott are my two juniors to really watch this year.  Both are poised to make huge progress in their games.  I don’t think even the Hurricane fans could have expected Winston to become as good as he has, as quickly as he did. He’s not a finished product by any means, but after only one season, he’s come along very well.  This year, Winston will need to continue to improve, especially in terms of his power and strength, to be included in that top tier of offensive tackle prospects.  There’s no doubt in my mind he will, and with that, I wouldn’t be at all surprised if he declared early.  He’s already learned that being an NFL OT will make him more money than a TE.

Final Word:

GROWTH — I hesitated putting Winston into the top 5, because for all I know, last season may have been an anomaly, and he could flop this year.  Yeah, right.  This kid’s a stud in the making, and after this year, everyone is going to know who he is.  Would it shock me if he saw the chance to be a high first round pick, and declare early?  Nope, not at all.  He’s got to get stronger and play with a little more fire, but this kid deserves to be in the conversation with guys like Brown and Barron.

Curtis Popejoy

Scouting Director