Chargers UDFA Spotlight: OL Chris Durant

In mid-April, I wrote about how the Chargers worked out Durant at his high-school prior to the NFL Draft. Turns out the Chargers liked him so much they made him one of their first pick-ups once the UDFA frenzy began.

Durant was a four-year starter for the Tribe who amassed 36 career starts at the left tackle position. At 6-foot-4 and 310 pounds, he possesses the prototypical size for a blindside protector and the necessary experience you want at such an important position. Before leaving campus, Durant was a three-time Third Team-All CAA selection, including his senior year in which he was limited to just six games played by a lingering injury.

After searching and searching for game film of any kind, I found W&M’s game against the Delaware Blue Hens, and guys, it’s some pretty stellar tape from Durant.

After watching just a handful of plays into this game, it was incredible how polished Durant was fundamentally to the point that I couldn’t believe he wasn’t a drafted player. He has excellent quickness in his kick-slide, keeps his feet very active in pass protection, and is constantly trying to win the battle for inside hand-position.

In the run game, he absolutely springs off the line which is evident as he consistently reaches inside shades and 3-techs. Durant also seems adept at using leverage to find productivity in the run game which makes up for any shortcomings he may have in the strength department.

After having watched the rest of the UDFA offensive linemen, I can say with certainty that Durant is the best of the bunch and is one of my favorite picks to make the final 53-man roster. With the logjam of talent on the interior, Durant has a much better shot at making the team with Sam Tevi and Michael Schofield as the only two main depth players at the tackle position.