Jon Runyan Jr. 2020 NFL Draft Profile
The son of a Philadelphia Eagles legend and congressman Jon Runyan, Michigan’s Jon Runyan Jr. boasts a resume similar to his father. Runyan was a standout at St. Joseph’s Prep School under coach Gabe Infante and won two straight PIAA Class AAAA state championships. Runyan was a first team all-state selection and a Three-star recruit. He was rated the No. 96 offensive tackle prospect and No. 21 player in Pennsylvania according to ESPN.com. Runyan committed to his father’s alma matter; the University of Michigan following his senior season.
College
In his first two seasons, Runyan did not see much game action, playing in only one game against Illinois. In 2017 as a junior, he appeared in nine games, starting one and playing along the offensive line in all nine while contributing on special teams. He earned his first career start at right tackle in the Outback Bowl against South Carolina. In 2018, he started all 13 games at left tackle. As a senior in 2018, Runyan was named to Pro Football Focus College’s All-Big Ten team after his performances against Wisconsin and Penn State. He was also the recipient of the Hugh H. Rader Memorial Award given to the team’s best lineman, joining his father (1994) as U-M’s only father-son duo to win the award.
As a fifth-year senior in 2019, Runyan started 11 games at left tackle. He was named Offensive Lineman of the Week for his performance against Rutgers and co-Offensive Player of the Game for his performance at Maryland. He completed his career with several accolades. Runyan was a two-time All-Big Ten honoree and four year Letterman from 2016-19. He was also an All-Big Ten Selection by the Associated Press in 2018 as a first team member.
Strengths
- Son a Pro Bowler;
- Quick recognition;
- Good ability to handle pass rushers;
- Takes smart angles;
- Versatile as tackle and guard;
- High acceleration off the ball.
Weaknesses
- Issues of consistency with hands;
- Below average drive blocker;
- Needs better timing;
- Lacks suddenness;
- Struggles with down-blocking;
- Can lose balance if not gaining first step.
Bottom Line on Jon Runyan Jr.
Like his father, Jon Runyan Jr is very determined and smart. He held up as a tackle despite a lack of desired physical and athletic traits. His performance against Big-10 competition was impressive. The ability to dissect a defense from an offensive line perspective will come in handy in the pros. He takes good angles off the ball which will help in establishing rushing lanes. His versatility could make him a starter quickly, given the proper coaching.
However, Runyan is inconsistent taking control into initial engagements. He plays with high hands that diminish power and control. His athleticism and body control allows him to fit into a variety of run schemes but none in which he can dominate in. Runyan’s protection experience at tackle improves his draft value as a later-round, backup-caliber guard. He is better off getting a year on the practice squad to develop before he could potentially turn into a Pro-Bowler like his dad.
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