NFL Draft 2019: What prospects could move into the first round?
2) Dalton Risner, OL, Kansas State
The top thing that teams will take notice of when evaluating Kansas State’s Dalton Risner is his versatility along the offensive line. He might not be an immediate starter for most teams, but he’s almost certain to get significant playing time as a rotational or backup player that can play any of the positions along the front five.
A four-year starter at Kansas State, Risner moved from position to position with relative ease, accumulating accolades each year which will make him a darling in the eyes of NFL scouts and offensive-line focused coaches. Despite having surgery at the end of 2017, the Wildcat was ready for the 2018 season and ended as a Second-Team Associated Press All-American.
None of this is to say he does not come with some concerns. Risner lacks ideal footwork to play in movement-heavy offensive lines, and will need to work hard to improve lateral quickness to achieve his highest potential. Additionally, he needs a heavy dose of weight training, after posting a mere 23 reps at the combine on the bench, a number low enough to rank him outside of the top 20 among all offensive linemen there.
Despite those concerns, I do not see Risner going outside of the top few picks of the second round. His experience and versatility will make it hard for teams to pass up, particularly teams in need of significant offensive line boosts such as the Green Bay Packers, the Oakland Raiders, and the New York Giants.