Is Andrus Peat a good fit for the Chargers

Arguably the top offensive lineman entering the season, Andrus Peat is still being mocked high in the 1st round and is high on the big media big boards. I liked what I saw last year from Peat just watching on TV, but after taking a closer look, there are serious flaws that he needs to correct. Some are correctable, others can be coached, but by his play this year, I'm not sure he's ready to start day 1.

Where's the power?

I only saw 4 combined drive blocks and knockdowns from Peat in the handful of games I watched. At 6'7, 315, I was expecting a display of raw power and him throwing guys around. That didn't happen, and it didn't take long to see why. With Peat, everything is a lunge. When attacking the defender in the run game, he bends at the waist and was vulnerable to numerous arm overs. This him not executing his block, or him falling flat on his face. Peat was on the ground 15 times, that's 2 more than LSU left tackle La'el Collins and Pittsburgh right tackle T.J. Clemmings combined.

The with Peat bending at the waist is he negates any possible power that he has. He already doesn't have a strong punch, so he's not jolting defenders back, but there's a reason he wasn't able to get movement in the run game. What you do see is him getting stood up at the point of attack, then shed by offensive lineman to make plays, 94 on UCLA knows exactly what I'm talking about. Ironically, 1 of his best run blocks every, from a technique standpoint to finishing through the whistle came against the best defensive player in the draft, Leonard Williams. Check out number 70 at right tackle below.

As a pass rusher, there's no reason for him to lunge, but it's something he consistently does. It's frustrating because Peat has top level feet. He can get to his spot and cut off the edge rusher with no issue. He can work to the 2nd level with ease. It looks pretty, up until he makes contact.

Penalties and Snap counts

I'd be interested to know how many penalties Peat had this year. I know he had 3 in 1 game and issues with hands to the face. Poor technique leads to penalties. For a guy who appears to be a gifted athlete, you wonder why his play looks so sloppy. Also, for a tackle to have his feet, he shouldn't be so late of the line of scrimmage. He was either too late, or too early, causing a false start. Here against Notre Dame, was the worst case scenario.

This is a result of not trusting himself in my opinion.

Inconsistencies Obvious

Peat grades out to a 8.028 or a fringe 1st rounder. He's a top 20 talent in this draft. Peat is so talented. He can go any direction and get there with ease. Is quick enough to execute reach blocks, shows good awareness in pass pro, and managed not to get beat in college. In the pros, it might be a different story. He'll need to learn to generate power trust his feet, and stop lunging at defenders.

How He Fits as a Charger

Peat would be the starting right tackle and would be arguably the most naturally talented player on the offensive line. He'd go through some rough stages going against the Von Miller's, Justin Houston's, whoever the Raiders draft, and every other top pass rusher San Diego would face. The 1 reason I wouldn't be mad at Peat in the 1st round is because Joe D'Alessandris has taken 2 less talented players(both offensive tackles) and eliminated their lunging issues. I think he could mold a talent like Peat and make him into a star. With the power Peat would be surrounded by, he wouldn't have to be a mauler, he'd just have to execute his assignment.