2021 NFL Draft: Jordan Reid Player Profile

Jordan Reid 2021 NFL Draft Profile

Entering the draft out of Michigan State, Jordan Reid provides an appealing set of skills for the professional game. Rated as a three-star recruit out of Cass Technical in Detriot, Reid stayed home to play for the Spartans. While he was recruited as a guard, he wound up taking on right tackle duties in the run-heavy offense. This gave him the ability to showcase his impressive movement skills on the line. Still, tackle might be a miscast for the young lineman, whose body is better suited for the interior. Regardless, he found a way to thrive on Michigan State’s line.

Opting out of the 2020 season could certainly have an effect on Reid’s draft positioning. However, if foregoing his senior season allowed him to work on his skills for the pro game, it might be for the best. Regardless, Reid seemed to improve in every season and posted strong games against good competition as a junior in 2019. Certainly, in a tight Michigan State battle against Ohio State, Reid impressed against Chase Young and Jonathan Cooper. With his ability to move well in pull blocking schemes, he’s a good running back’s dream. A year away from the game certainty deprives professional organizations of tape. Still, Reid has some really impressive games on the record.

Strengths

Gets off the ball in a hurry to engage defenders;

Stood up to the test against quality Big Ten competition;

Shows pretty strong lateral movement skills;

Seals the edge pretty well in pass protection;

Excels in hand-to-hand combat against edge rushers;

Size will look better when he kicks in to guard;

Plays really smart and complementary football for the rest of his lineman.

Weaknesses

Doesn’t seem to do a great job landing initial punches;

Certainly not the most powerful blocker;

Looked a little aimless on some pull blocks;

Never really finds ways to punish a defending player;

A year away from the game could certainly impact development;

Could do better with the efficiency in his movement on the line.

NFL Comparison: Damien Lewis

Projection: Seventh Round

Bottom Line on Jordan Reid

While his lack of growth might have him falling to the late rounds of the 2021 NFL Draft, Jordan Reid is an interesting project for the right team. His experience in Michigan State’s run-heavy offense should benefit Reid in his professional transition. With NFL schemes increasingly using their guards on the move in both all facets, it’s an ideal trait to possess. Further, his ability to hold up to tough tests against Big Ten edge rushers proves some potential. Granted, Reid needs to add some weight to thrive at the guard position. While he looked solid against lengthier pass rushers, stout interior defensive tackles are a different ball game.