Florida State OT Zebrie Sanders Is Currently a Projected Second-Round Pick

Leading up to April’s NFL Draft, we’ll be taking a look at each ACC‘s school’s prospects and where they’re slated to be chosen. While 43 ACC players were invited to the NFL Draft Combine, those not in attendance also have ample opportunity to hear their name called between April 26 and 28.

Keeping most of their players from 2011′s strong team, the 2012 Florida State Seminoles look to be in great shape. Just six members of last year’s team appear to have a realistic shot of being drafted this year.

Zebrie Sanders, OT, Senior

While the 6’6″, 320-pound tackle certainly has the frame to warrant selection in this year’s NFL Draft, he was also part of a Florida State line that allowed 41 sacks last season (near the bottom of the ACC). Even though his aforementioned size is well-suited for his position, Sanders is showing signs of decline. His strength numbers measure well below what they should be for his build, and he’s gained 13 pounds since the 2011 season opened (not a good sign considering his strength hasn’t gone up). Speed-wise, there’s even more room for concern. If he expects to stop defenders with slow reaction times and a 5.41 40-time, he’s sorely mistaken. So how is he still a second-rounder? Once again, scouts see his frame and believe they can mold him into more of an athlete. If it works out, he’s a steal. If not, he’s a second-round gamble that just didn’t pay out (better than a first, anyway). Continue reading →