Matt Peart Overview
Position: Offensive Tackle
Height: 6’-7”
Weight: 318 pounds
School: Connecticut
NFL Combine Performance Data
40-Yard Dash: 5.06 seconds
Bench Press: 26 reps
Vertical Jump: 30.0”
Broad Jump: 113.0”
Matt Peart 2020 NFL Draft Profile
After five years (four on-field seasons) at the University of Connecticut, offensive tackle Matt Peart is looking to take his game to the NFL level. Peart had arguably the best season of his career in 2019, allowing just two sacks, one hit, and four hurries on 774 snaps. He dominated just about every game he played, although he obviously didn’t go up against the greatest competition.
Peart initially entered the college football ranks as a two-star prospect. After receiving minimal interest from major programs, the Jamaica native committed to UConn. After redshirting in 2015, Peart won the starting left tackle job in 2016. He continued to hold down the job in 2017, allowing four sacks and 13 hurries in 940 snaps. He improved in 2018, allowing two sacks, four hits, and 13 hurries in 940 snaps.
Strengths
- Well-rounded player that projects positively both as a run blocker and a pass blocker;
- Ideal build for the position;
- Fantastic hand work with ability to deliver punches while moving his feet;
- Has the frame to add on additional muscle moving forward;
- Promising athlete with impressive testing numbers at the NFL Combine;
- Four-year starter coming off the best season of his collegiate career.
Weaknesses
- Doesn’t set well in pass protection – will need to iron out footwork;
- Should probably add some muscle to handle NFL bull rushes;
- Struggles to keep balance when engaged with defender;
- Not a ferocious, play through the whistle type of blocker;
- Overly cautious at times – needs to trust his instincts and play looser.
NFL Comparison: Nate Solder
Teams With Need at Position: Arizona Cardinals, Cleveland Browns, Jacksonville Jaguars, Miami Dolphins, Minnesota Vikings, New York Giants, New York Jets
Projection: 2nd Round
Bottom Line on Matt Peart
Matt Peart is an interesting prospect with a high ceiling and coachable flaws. The positive aspects jump off the page, as he’s one of the few Day 2 prospects that can already be effective in both the pass and run game. His 6’-7”, 318-pound frame was made for the NFL, and he has room to add on some more muscle. He tested well at the NFL Combine and started each season of his collegiate career. There are exceptions to the rule, but these traits typically lead to success at the NFL level.
Most of the biggest issues with Peart are fixable with the right coaching and conditioning. Peart is somewhat vulnerable to powerful bull rushes and could stand to add some strength. However, as previously mentioned, he can add muscle to his frame, so this shouldn’t be an issue. Additionally, his footwork issues are coachable, and his longtime resume as a starter suggests he’s coachable and is a fast learner. He might not be a starter right out of the gate, but he should find his way into the starting lineup before long.
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