University of Utah offensive tackle Spencer Fano has become one of the top prospects of the 2026 NFL Draft. Fano weighs in at 302 pounds and stands 6’6″ tall. Upon starting at Utah, he made an immediate impact as he earned starting time as a true freshman. This led to him becoming one of the most integral parts of Utah’s offensive line. During his collegiate career, Fano has shown he is able to play either left or right tackle.
College Career & Performance of Spencer Fano
Of the 37 games that Fano played in, he started in 35 of them during his three seasons in Utah. He also earned plenty of accolades, including All-American honors, and was the Big 12 Offensive Lineman of the Year in 2025. Also in 2025, Fano claimed the Outland Trophy, awarded to the top interior lineman in the nation.
During his 2025 season, Fano allowed zero sacks and gave up just five total pressures. His presence helped Utah rank among the top rushing offenses in the country.
Strengths
- Run Blocking: He has proven to be excellent at driving defenders off the line and opening lanes for ball carriers.
- Athleticism: Fano moves well laterally despite his size and maintains balance well, allowing him to adjust on the line as needed.
- Pass Protection: His hand placement and footwork are top-notch, which have helped him prevent defenders from getting into the pocket.
- Football IQ: He seemingly handles pre-snap adjustments well and communicates well with his line, something that will be highly valued in the NFL.
Weaknesses
- Frame: Strength and holding up against defensive linemen may be a concern upon arriving in the NFL.
- Hand Placement: He can occasionally see a reduction in leverage against speed pass rushers as his hands occasionally drift wide.
Analyst Comments
“Fano plows the road for what I think will be one of the country’s best rushing attacks… Don’t let the fact that he isn’t a blind side tackle fool you — Fano is a great player with all the tools it takes to play on Sundays.”
— Richard Johnson, CBS Sports
“He’s a freaky athlete on the edge of being great in both phases, and he still has room to improve.”
— Draftwire/USA TODAY Sports
“I think he could be the top offensive tackle drafted. I really do.”
— Todd McShay, ESPN
Draft Grade and NFL Projection for Spencer Fano
Grade: Late First Round/Early Second Round
Projection: First Round Talent
Final Take: Spencer Fano NFL Draft Outlook
Spencer Fano has everything it takes to be a superior offensive lineman in the NFL. During his college career, he showed that he can dominate in both run and pass blocking. He also has the intelligence and the athleticism to make it to the next level. As he continues to develop more strength to pose a challenge to defensive linemen, he seems like the kind of player who could start immediately and become a permanent fixture on either side of the line. Any team in need of a polished tackle who is versatile in run and pass blocking should have him ranked high on their draft boards.
If you want a full look at where this Spencer Fano NFL Draft profile stacks up against the rest of the class, check out our latest 2026 NFL Draft Big Board Version One, where we break down the top prospects across every position.
