Munford is coming off an underrated season at tackle
Las Vegas Raiders were penciled in for a right tackle during the draft. They selected a right tackle, but not until the third round. DJ Glaze was the pick, but it left Thayer Munford Jr. a more accessible track to win the job.
In the 2022 draft, Munford Jr. was selected in the seventh round but impressed early. The previous regime allowed him to compete for the starting right tackle position in training camp. He showed a solid performance as a rookie, especially in pass pro, where he allowed 11 pressures during his 300 snaps.
He didn’t win the job going into 2023 but earned snaps at left and right tackle because of injury. James Cregg mentions his versatility during OTA’s.
“But I think he’s – kind of like talking about Dylan [Parham] – he’s natural on the left, like you put him on the left he can totally do it. That’s what he did in college, he played both sides. He played more left than right, but he can go both directions. You saw it last year he can go step in for Kolton [Miller] when he needed to, and he’s been a pleasant surprise over there at right.”
Munford Jr.’s growth in the run is a big factor. His athleticism and lateral movement fit the team’s move to a zone scheme. He is running mid-zone on this run below, and his technique shines as he can block new Raider Christian Wilkins four yards downfield.
The former Ohio State Buckeye recorded an 80.00 grade from PFF in run blocking. He ranked eighth in the NFL and consistently created holes for his running back. In the video below, he works against star defensive tackle Kenny Clark. He wins the fight of brute strength but is able to flip his hips and open up a hole for Josh Jacobs.
Pass Protection can be an issue, but Munford Jr. continues to grow in that area. Quicker speed rushers will cause headaches for Raider fans, but he has strong anchor ability and an understanding of stunts and blitz pressures. He is below against the Packers, quickly picking up a stunt and allowing Jimmy Garoppolo plenty of time to get rid of the football.
Munford Jr.’s upside at right tackle is why Tom Telesco thought he could stick to his board and draft Brock Bowers. The Raiders are projected to be a smash-mouth football team, and Munford Jr. fits the bill as a player who could help build a stout offensive line.