KALAMAZOO, Mich. - Offensive tackle James Blair did not hear his name during the 2008 NFL Draft but he will sign his name to a free agent contract with the Cincinnati Bengals.
Blair becomes the second Bronco offensive lineman in as many seasons to sign a free agent contract with an NFL franchise after former teammate Dominic Moran did so with the New York Jets after the 2006 campaign.
In 2007, Blair led the team in plays, not only setting a new single-season personal best with his 1,043 plays but almost matching his output from the past two seasons combined (1,381). Blair started every game of this senior season, marking the first time in his career he had started every game of a campaign. He finished his career with 27 starts in 44 games played and he was in one 2,424 plays throughout his career. Blair earned First Team All-Mid-American Conference honors following his senior campaign and participated in both the 2008 Hula All-Star Game and the Texas vs. the Nation Challenge.
The Detroit native was the only member of the WMU football team to be invited to the 2008 NFL Combine held in Indianapolis in March. During his time there, the league scouts graded Blair on agility, body size and talent. Some of the analysis stated that Blair was a tough player who commands attention with his strong effort and anchor. He can extend his arms and set his legs so even the strongest of defensive tackles cannot bull their way into the backfield. He drive blocks well, getting his hands into the defender's body quickly and moving him down the line or backwards. Blair has quick set and adequate lateral movement in pass protection to play inside. He is effective getting into the thigh pads of defender when cut blocking. (Information gathered from www.nfl.com)
Cincinnati made 10 selections during the draft but only one on the offensive line, Anthony Collins who is also an offensive tackle for the University of Kansas. The Bengals currently have three tackles listed on their active roster as well as a pair of tackle/guards. Blair could be used at either position.
Blair will travel to Cincinnati this coming week for the Bengals' mini-camp scheduled for May 2-4.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
No comments:
Post a Comment