:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/52974209/usa_today_9837289.0.jpg)
Introduction
Hometown: Atlanta, Georgia
High School: Charles R Drew High School, Riverdale Georgia
Recruitment: 2 Star
Measurables
Height: 6’7
Weight: 302lb's
Class: Senior
Projected 40 Time: 5.02
Positives
- Extremely productive in college. Troy constantly ranked as one of the best pass protection units in the country.
- Has NFL size, with height, weight and length.
- Hand usage is elite, meets blockers away from his body and doesn't lean in.
- Excellent feet to mirror and direct pass rushers on the outside.
- Strong hands, one of the best punches in college football among lineman.
- Looks to have a high IQ, not often fooled or overwhelmed by pass rushing moves.
- Plays right through the whistle, never takes a play off and finishes his blocks.
- Plays with excellent balance.
Negatives
- Although he has good weight, his frame still appears a little lean when you watch tape, the good news is his frame can support extra weight gain.
- Lower body is a little lean, can be beat with pure power rushes.
- Does have a tendency to let his hands fall outside, will draw holding calls in the NFL.
Conclusion
Garcia is a really interesting prospect because in terms of pass protection, he's extremely reliable and athletic. His balance and foot speed allows him to protect the blindside to a high degree. The problem is his leanness through the hips and into his lower body, this causes him to be pushed back and his run blocking takes a hit as a result. Saying that, Garcia is one of my favourite prospects in this draft. With the help of a good strength and conditioning coach at the NFL level, I think he's going to be a fantastic pro. I always look for my LT to protect the QB first and then run block 2nd. He is one of the better pure pass blocking lineman I've seen over the last few years.
Draft Round Prediction: I'd be amazed if he escaped the second round. There is a long way to go, but I have a feeling a few teams will fall in love with him. I'd look at the Jets to consider Garcia at pick number 39.