NFL Draft: Jonah Savaiinaea – A Road-Grading Offensive Lineman with NFL Versatility
In an NFL draft class loaded with offensive line talent, few prospects bring the blend of size, power, and versatility that Arizona’s Jonah Savaiinaea offers. At 6-foot-4 and just under 330 pounds, Savaiinaea possesses an ideal frame for a player who can seamlessly transition between right tackle and right guard at the next level. With his thick, well-proportioned build, he looks primed to carry NFL weight without losing any of the athleticism that makes him such an intriguing prospect. He could even add another eight pounds comfortably and still maintain his mobility and power.
Surprising Athleticism and Run-Blocking Dominance
One of the first things that stands out about Savaiinaea is his ability in the run game. For his size, he is surprisingly fast and quick, showing an impressive initial burst off the line of scrimmage. He consistently fires off the ball with good pad level, and when he gets his hands underneath a defender’s shoulder pads, those defenders are getting folded. His reach-blocking technique is excellent, allowing him to seal off defenders and create running lanes effectively.
Additionally, his raw power at the point of attack makes him an ideal fit for a run-heavy scheme. Whether he’s working in tandem on double teams or mauling defenders one-on-one, Savaiinaea’s strength and hand placement allow him to create movement in the trenches. His two-hand punch is devastating, knocking defenders off balance and opening up lanes for ball carriers. His double-team work is also a strong aspect of his game, as he excels in working with his fellow linemen to clear space efficiently.
Pass Protection: Strengths and Weaknesses
Savaiinaea’s pass protection is a bit of a mixed bag. On the positive side, his kick slide is better than some have given him credit for. He gets solid depth, which will help him hold up against speed rushers who favor the outside. His experience in Arizona’s pass-heavy offense has given him a wealth of reps in pass protection, which should translate well to the NFL level.
However, there are concerns about his ability to counter inside moves. While his kick slide looks effective, there is some concern that he may be telegraphing it, making it easier for rushers to set him up and cut back inside. This is a potential issue because, in the NFL, elite pass rushers can fake outside and quickly redirect inside, which could be a problem if he struggles to adjust. His change of direction when dealing with inside counters is something teams will want to evaluate closely.
Another minor concern is his pad level, which is not always consistent. While he can make up for some of these technical inconsistencies with his sheer size and strength, improving this aspect of his game would help him maximize his leverage and control against defenders.
Projection and Best Fit
Ultimately, Savaiinaea looks like a player who could start at right tackle in the NFL from day one but may also project well at right guard. His size, power, and run-blocking prowess make him an attractive option for teams that prioritize a physical ground game. While he has some technique flaws in pass protection, his experience and raw ability suggest he can be a reliable presence on the offensive line with the right coaching.
For teams looking for a powerful, tone-setting lineman who can provide flexibility along the offensive front, Savaiinaea is a name to watch come draft day. His blend of physicality, movement skills, and high-level experience in both pass protection and run blocking gives him the potential to be an impactful player in the league for years to come.
By D. Smith, Offensive Line Analyst, Pint Glass Football