D.J. Fluker, Junior, Offensive Tackle, Alabama
Overview:
Coming out of high school, D.J. Fluker garnered a lot of hype. He was an All-American prep by just about everybody. At Alabama Fluker has lived up to that hype. As a redshirt freshman in 2010, the 6-6 offensive tackle started nine games at right tackle. Fluker has had two years of paving the way for some great running backs and that will continue in 2012 and possibly beyond.
At 6-6 and 335 pounds, the Foley, Alabama native already has an NFL body. With another year of development, Fluker should be one of the top, if not the top, offensive tackles eligible for the 2013 NFL Draft. However, Fluker could stick around and make a go at the 2014 NFL Draft instead.
Final Projection:
The knock on Fluker will be his pass blocking. He is not a bad pass blocker by any means, but at Alabama he has not had to do much pass blocking. He will also likely move over to the left side at some point, but even if he does not, he could be a starting tackle in the NFL on either side. His deceptively good foot work will make him a versatile option for NFL teams in need of a tackle on either side of the line.
12/8/2012 Update by Dan LeVine:
Alabama once again reached the title game thanks in large part to the running game. Against Georgia, both running backs, Eddie Lacy and T.J. Yeldon, ran for 350 yards. Fluker was a big reason for that. He is such a big man that he just engulfs defensive ends. He leaves a bit to be desired athletically, but based on where the team is, scouts see value in him. He is sure to make an impact at the next level.
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