Why is height so valued in the NFL and College for lineman? I understand that scouts are looking for size, and it is usually the taller ones who are the bigger ones. But on the other hand a defensive tackle from Temple named Dan Klecko was a stellar lineman in college and looking to get drafted this year. He’s 5’11 and 285, and scouts were making a big deal about him being too short. He certainly met the weight credentials, and the talent credentials, just not height. I’m thinking height may affect leverage on the line. Anyone else like to weigh in?
Originally posted by schnig42
But on the other hand a defensive tackle from Temple named Dan Klecko was a stellar lineman in college and looking to get drafted this year. He’s 5’11 and 285, and scouts were making a big deal about him being too short.
dig up some of dan’s strength numbers & you’ll see why he got drafted. as for why the league wants taller guys, it used to be the smaller guys were the faster players and when you needed a burner, you went after a 5’9" 175lb db or wr, now, they want a guy who runs 4.4 and is 6’2" or 6’3" and over 200lbs. the game is evolving, and if you want to join the party you gotta be the total package.
Most QB´s are tall. It is alot tougher to see or throw over a 6´5´´ DE than one who is 5´11´´. Also it is easier to get a lineman over 300 lbs when he has a bigger frame to pack it on.
But it is also a shame or mistake to use one or two physical critieria to eliminate good athletes.
Defensive lineman are favored taller so that they have a better chance of tipping passes.