Rams' 6th-round pick: Ken Shackleford, T, Georgia

(4/29/07)

Ken Shackleford 6'5" 322 5.37

PFW: 16th-ranked OT. Has good size with a big "bubble butt"
and power base. Moves well enough to reach the second level.
Versatile; has played multiple positions... Only a one-year
starter. Plays too passively and will fall off of blocks. Can be
late off the ball (opposite of Alex Barron, then?). Raw; needs to
play with better pad level, leverage, hand work. On the ground
more than he should be... Strictly a developmental prospect
who really struggled at the Combine. Finished last in many
categories. At least a few years away.

Shackleford is not in Sporting News' top 20 tackles or on the
War Room value board as draftable.

Scout.com has an entry for Shackleford at OT but fails to rank
him on their OT prospect list. King-sized blocker who works
best in confined quarters. Stays square, strong at the point
of contact and controls opponents once engaged. Nasty attitude,
another Rams pick this year always looking for someone to hit.
Keeps his feet moving... Haphazard in movements, plays with poor
balance. Not light on his feet, needs to shed a few pounds. Slow
to adjust, lacks skill sliding out to protect the edge... Better-than-
advertised athlete with size and strength to play in the pros.
Developmental prospect who could surprise if he hits on all cylinders.

I'm more receptive to taking a project at this stage of the draft. Rams
are smart to plan for the eventual exit of Orlando Pace. They'll have
time to bring Shackleford along. Thumbs slightly up.