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2014 NFL Draft: Taylor Lewan has toughness, physicality questioned by scouts

By Patrick Schmidt

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Nov 9, 2013; Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Michigan Wolverines offensive linesman Taylor Lewan (77) walks off the field after the game against the Nebraska Cornhuskers at Michigan Stadium. Nebraska won 17-13. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 9, 2013; Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Michigan Wolverines offensive linesman Taylor Lewan (77) walks off the field after the game against the Nebraska Cornhuskers at Michigan Stadium. Nebraska won 17-13. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports /

There is no greater criticism for a football player than having your toughness questioned, but that’s exactly what is facing former Michigan Wolverines left tackle and potential top-15 pick Taylor Lewan in advance of next month’s NFL draft.

While Greg Robinson and Jake Matthews are viewed as the superior talents at offensive tackle, Lewan has put himself squarely in the mix with a strong combine, running the fastest 40 among all lineman with a 4.87, but a fast 40 does not equate to physical toughness which you need to excel in the trenches.

An NFC scout, AFC personnel executive and NFC scouting director pinpointed the part of Lewan’s game in an nj.com story that came out Sunday that is giving their teams serious reservations about selecting the former All-Big Ten lineman.

"Scouting director: “There are question marks there. He’s one of those love/hate guys. He worked out well, but he’s not that tough.”Scout: “I’m not sure about him,” the scout said. “He’s not as physical as you would like.”Personnel executive: “Real inconsistent,” the executive said. “You see some games, and you think he’s another Jake Long. Then, you watch him struggle. He’ll go first round; I’m just not sure where.”"

Lewan has worked out for the Atlanta Falcons, Detroit Lions and has plans to do so for the St. Louis Rams with the Miami Dolphins also intrigued by the prospect of adding him to shore up their beleaguered offensive line, but if he’s “not that tough” it could lead to him being a bust if he doesn’t show a little nasty.

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