D.J. Fluker, OT

04/25/2013 - DANE BRUGLER'S FINAL 2013 DRAFT BOARD: 37. OT D.J. Fluker, Alabama (6-5, 339, 4JR)...While there are concerns that he lacks the fluidity to stay on the edges in the NFL, Fluker has the base, length and power to dominate defenders when in position. - Dane Brugler, NFLDraftScout.com

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Since redshirting in 2009, Fluker has emerged as a standout at right tackle for the Tide.

He played in 10 games in 2010 - starting nine of them - despite missing four games in early October due to a groin strain. He started all 13 games as the strong-side tackle the following season, demonstrating improved footwork and power from his first season of action.

Fluker earned preseason All-SEC recognition in 2012 and went on to earn a host of honors, including second-team All-America by AP and Walter Camp and first-team All-SEC from the coach and second-team from the media while starting each of the Crimson Tide's games en route to the national title.

Anyone who watched Alabama dismantle a talented Notre Dame defense in the BCS title game knows that the Crimson Tide offensive line was dominant. Much of the credit has gone to the Tide's interior line (and for good reason). At 6-6, 335 pounds, however, Fluker is an absolute road-grader, himself. Massive, physical and tenacious, he's the top right tackle prospect in the draft.

STRENGTHS: Powerful run blocker. Fluker's combination of size and power make him a formidable prospect who should only get better. While he disappointed scouts by electing not to participate in the Senior Bowl (citing lingering calf, groin injuries), Fluker's incredibly impressive frame left scouts drooling. Despite weighing in 20 pounds heavier than he'd been listed at Alabama, Fluker showed impressive overall weight distribution, long limbs (including 36.38" arms) and shockingly little flab in his middle. Powerful hands. Is capable of latching on and controlling pass rushers. Passionate player who was regarded as a emotional leader for the Tide... For a drive-blocking, power-based scheme, Fluker ranks as the top right tackle prospect in the draft.

WEAKNESSES: At his size, Fluker is strictly a right tackle or perhaps even a guard prospect as he hasn't demonstrated the agility or balance necessary to handle NFL speed rushers on a consistent basis. Even as a run blocker -- his specialty -- Fluker has a tendency to drop his head and stop his feet as he makes contact, resulting in some of his more talented opponents being able to disengage.

Compares to: James Carpenter, Seahawks -- Due to his massive size and upside, Fluker will often earn comparisons to former Alabama standout Andre Smith, who the Cincinnati Bengals made the No. 6 overall pick of the 2009 draft. In reality, a fairer comparison is to former teammate Carpenter, who also earned a first-round selection (No. 25) in 2011 by the Seattle Seahawks.