2023 NFL Draft: Ryan Hayes Scouting Report

2023 NFL Draft: Ryan Hayes Scouting Report

Coming from a family of athletes as well as balancing three sports in high school, athletics has never been a question for Michigan’s Ryan Hayes. A four-star recruit out of high school, Hayes made the decision to stay home and attend Michigan where he would be part of one of the nation’s most dominant rushing attacks.

Through his career at Michigan, Ryan Hayes would become a rock for the unit that won the Joe Moore Award. He would play in over 2,000 snaps during his time with the team while only surrendering four sacks while doing so. His arm length may leave some with questions about his ability to play tackle, but the numbers don’t lie. Tackle may not be his future, but he certainly wouldn’t be a liability at the position.

During his time in college, Michigan was one of the most dominant rushing attacks in the nation. While credit is due to the other offensive lineman as well as the backs in the system, some of the best tape on him exists when he reaches the next level. Ryan Hayes proved he can be an absolute bully using his natural size to enforce his will. He may follow a path similar to current Bears lineman Teven Jenkins and make a transition from tackle to guard.

Strengths:

An impressive run blocker with a mean streak you want in an offensive lineman;

Intelligent player who understands where the rush is coming from;

Does a good job of getting to the second level and choses violence;

Footwork and drive are exceptional;

While he may be kicked inside to guard, his experience at tackle gives him the versatility to fill in when needed to.

Weaknesses:

Arm length could force him into playing guard as opposed to protecting the blindside;

Overcompensates for outside moves and surrenders too much inside leverage quickly;

At times movement can be stiff and robotic;

Needs to get stronger in order to be able to drop the anchor against the bull rush, pass rushers in the NFL will only be stronger and this is something he struggles with as is;

Has to get better at using his hands to defend the rush, will leave pad level too high and vulnerable too often.

NFL Comparison: Teven Jenkins

Projection: Fifth Round

Bottom Line on Ryan Hayes

Offering versatility is something that cannot be undervalued when looking at Ryan Hayes. His move to guard would be one that could maximize his talents and elevate his play. Teams that draft Hayes can expect a player who brings the proper demeanor that is contagious for the rest of the linemen. He is best suited in a system that is run-heavy so he can continue to punish defenders at the next level. He’ll likely be a late-round pick that will be something of a project initially but could be a great depth piece for any offensive line.

Main Photo: Kirby Lee – USA Today