Death to Google Ads! Texans Talk Tip Jar! 🍺😎👍
Thanks for your support!

3.80 Texans Select Martinas Rankin OT Miss state

Thoughts:

2018 NFL Draft: Please Draft Martinas Rankin

usa_today_10420781.0.jpg
Brett Rojo-USA TODAY Sports
 
I like it. Played in toughest conference against the best rushers and defenses. Some analysts think he needs to slide inside to maximize his skills, but I think he's going to get with some pro coaches and trainers and wreck shop sooner rather than later he's legit.
 
CloakNNNdagger said:
Please put the players name in the title if you are going to start draftee threads.

He dropped because of a high ankle sprain which kept him out of 3 games early last season. Despite having problems with this injury for most of the season, his performance last year was still commendable.
Click to expand...


Didn’t want to spoil it for those who are draft watching and weren’t following twitter feeds. Can we get mods to edit.
 
He's going to get way stronger and that's really the biggest knock on him. He's a great athlete for his size and I think he'll be the LT of the future. Love the pick. This guy Gaines or Gaine or whatever :kitten: seems to know what he's doing huh?
 
Uncle Rico said:
He's going to get way stronger and that's really the biggest knock on him. He's a great athlete for his size and I think he'll be the LT of the future. Love the pick. This guy Gaines or Gaine or whatever :kitten: seems to know what he's doing huh?
Click to expand...

Because he agrees with you?? And not the rest of the draft sphere who thinks he’s a interior lineman.

In saying that Gaines seems to be doing ok
 
Got a guy that I think can start at RT early.

Lots of good guys going to be out there tomorrow.
 
What they’re saying
“IN OUR VIEW: Rankin is still learning the nuances of the position and lacks a dominant trait, but he grades slightly above average in almost every critical area for playing the position at a high level. He can stay at tackle in the NFL, but also has the versatile skill-set to provide depth at guard and center.”

-NFLDraftScout

Final thoughts
Rankin is not yet a finished product.

He has the traits to be a good offensive tackle, but he needs to clean up some technical issues that compromise his positive traits. For instance, he has quick feet and a good kick-slide, but his feet seem to get “stuck in the mud” when he has to react quickly to speed. He is a powerful lineman, but he has a tendency to not bend his knees, raising his pad level and keeping him from uncoiling his hips and unleashing that power. He has active hands, but the wind-up before his punch gives up his chest, and too often his hands wind up outside the defender’s framework.

None of this is to say that Rankin is going to bust. Vanishingly few, if any, prospects are finished products coming out of college. Rankin’s upside is obvious, but like the vast majority of prospects, he will need to commit to honing his craft to truly succeed in the NFL.

The question for the New York Giants is whether or not they could either live with him while he develops (assuming, of course, that he does) or give him the environment in which he can iron out these wrinkles.

They could certainly use the player he could be on their offensive line.
&&&&&
https://www.bigblueview.com/2018/2/...t-mississippi-state-scouting-report-ny-giants
&&&&&
This report/evaluation was prepared by the NY Giants organization as they apparently had some interest in him but Rankin clearly has some potential as an NFL OT and some starting experience in the SEC.
 
Texansballer74 said:
Noteboom went to the Rsms. I'm wondering how upset Steelbtexan is right now. Step away from the ledge brother.
Click to expand...

WTF? I think Noteboom would have been a better pick but am 100% behind Rankins now. Draft is a crapshoot, should Steelbtexan pull this thread back up when Noteboom is a pro-bowler and Rankins isn't on roster?
 
gs27 said:
WTF? I think Noteboom would have been a better pick but am 100% behind Rankins now. Draft is a crapshoot, should Steelbtexan pull this thread back up when Noteboom is a pro-bowler and Rankins isn't on roster?
Click to expand...

Didn't see previous replies, nvrmd
 
ESPN: Rankin, who made 19 starts at left tackle the past two seasons, has good initial quickness and enough short-area agility to mirror-and-slide as an interior lineman in the NFL. The more space he is in, the less effective he becomes, and his arms (33 3/4 inches is a red flag at tackle) mean Rankin might have to move inside to guard or center in the NFL.

The Texans have a pressing need at tackle, where they could play Rankin as he started 19 games at left tackle over the past two seasons. However, he doesn’t have ideal length for a tackle and projects better on the inside. — Steve Muench

Rotoworld: Texans selected Mississippi State OL Martina Rankin with the No. 80 overall pick in the 2018 NFL draft. Rankin (6’4/308) spent two years as a Bulldog after transferring from JUCO, mainly manning left tackle and earning first-team All-SEC from the conference’s coaches as a senior. Old-ish for a rookie (24 in October) but exceptionally bright, Rankin twice earned SEC Academic Honor Roll and has dabbled at all five positions on the line. Most NFL scouts viewed Rankin as a guard or even center before the draft. NFL.com O-Line guru Lance Zierlein compared Rankin to underrated Seahawks C Justin Britt. The Texans needed offensive line help, and that’s where they went with their first selection in the draft.

CBS Sports: (B+) They have a major need at tackle and he can play either side. I think he needs to be better against speed rushers. | Techician at the left tackle spot at Mississippi State. Sinks his hips and strikes first from a wide base in pass protection, which almost always led to him stymieing different types of rushers. Needs to add weight to play on tackle in the NFL. Impressive leg churn and grip. Rarely caught off balance. Could kick inside to guard. Doesn’t wow athletically but NFL-ready from fundamental standpoint.

SI: (B+) Martinas Rankin | T | MISSISSIPPI STATE
The Texans HAD to find some offensive tackles to protect the franchise quarterback for whom they traded away this year’s first-round pick last spring. Rankin has a chance to play in Week 1.

Scouting Report: A late-September ankle injury derailed his senior season, but Rankin showed a solid all-around skill set when healthy. He’s technically sound and has enough athleticism to hold up pass-protecting on an island, one of the higher-floor tackle prospects in this class.
 
gs27 said:
WTF? I think Noteboom would have been a better pick but am 100% behind Rankins now. Draft is a crapshoot, should Steelbtexan pull this thread back up when Noteboom is a pro-bowler and Rankins isn't on roster?
Click to expand...

I'm not that guy.

I like Rankins but liked Noteboom more.

I probably would've traded up for Noteboom in the 3rd and had Noteboom/Rankins compete with Davenport/Henderson at OT. The good thing also would've been is that both of these guys have experience at OG.

Talented competition/depth on the OL isn't a bad thing. BTW, I hope Gaine picks Crosby/Richardson in the 4th, but there's still a lot of talent out there, so I really hope they go BPA.
 
Last edited:
http://www.espn.com/blog/houston-texans

Round 3, No. 80 overall: Martinas Rankin, OL, Mississippi State
My take: Left tackle was the Texans’ biggest hole entering the draft, but Houston hopes to have addressed that with the second of their three third-round picks. Rankin started nine games at left tackle last season at Mississippi State and will compete right away for the starting spot in 2018. The Texans hope they have their starting quarterback for the foreseeable future in Deshaun Watson, and if Rankin can win the job and play at a high level, Watson could have the protection he needs going forward -- something he lacked last season.

How he fits: Judging by the offensive linemen the Texans signed in free agency, the versatility to play multiple positions on the offensive line is very important to Gaine and head coach Bill O’Brien. That comes through again with the pick of Rankin, who said he is comfortable at all five positions on the offensive line. The Texans started five different left tackles in 2017 -- Duane Brown, Chris Clark, Kendall Lamm, Julién Davenport and Jeff Allen -- and hope that Rankin can end that streak. He will likely compete with Davenport for the starting spot. Rankin dealt with a high ankle sprain last season, but said he will be ready for Texans' rookie minicamp next month.
 
All the evaluations projecting him as a tackle for Houston are probably wrong. He could end up at tackle as plan B, but plan A will likely be guard. He has too much trouble with speedy edge rushers (see the Alabama game below), but the dude does not lose ground when he's locked in, and he can run block like a bull.



O'Brien prefers linemen who can play all over the line, which isn't always ideal, but it has its advantages. Due to his smarts, he could replace Mancz as Martin's backup.
 
Brisco_County said:
All the evaluations projecting him as a tackle for Houston are probably wrong. He could end up at tackle as plan B, but plan A will likely be guard. He has too much trouble with speedy edge rushers (see the Alabama game below), but the dude does not lose ground when he's locked in, and he can run block like a bull.



O'Brien prefers linemen who can play all over the line, which isn't always ideal, but it has its advantages. Due to his smarts, he could replace Mancz as Martin's backup.
Click to expand...


So who is going to be the odd man out. We're loaded at guard.
 
Last edited:
Number19 said:
So the intent is to move Davenport to RT?
Click to expand...

Davenport is their internal candidate Gaine said prior to the draft. They will compete for the LT job. No need to just hand an unproven player the starting job if possible. We don't need another Kendall Lamm training camp hero situation!

Also they could be playing their cards close to the vest because their next pick is coming up soon. Could be targeting another OL. I had Will Richardson going to us at 98 in my mock and would like him here to compete for RT job. If we have two rookies starting at OT next season it's not ideal but if they're the best candidates for the job then that's what we'll do!

And if they lose out to the internal candidates (Davenport/Henderson) they have the versatility to kick inside to guard to make them more valuable on gameday.
 
TheRealJoker said:
Davenport is their internal candidate Gaine said prior to the draft. They will compete for the LT job. No need to just hand an unproven player the starting job if possible. We don't need another Kendall Lamm training camp hero situation!

Also they could be playing their cards close to the vest because their next pick is coming up soon. Could be targeting another OL. I had Will Richardson going to us at 98 in my mock and would like him here to compete for RT job. If we have two rookies starting at OT next season it's not ideal but if they're the best candidates for the job then that's what we'll do!

And if they lose out to the internal candidates (Davenport/Henderson) they have the versatility to kick inside to guard to make them more valuable on gameday.
Click to expand...
But check this - Tyrell Crosby is also still available this morning.
 
Brisco_County said:
All the evaluations projecting him as a tackle for Houston are probably wrong. He could end up at tackle as plan B, but plan A will likely be guard. He has too much trouble with speedy edge rushers (see the Alabama game below), but the dude does not lose ground when he's locked in, and he can run block like a bull.



O'Brien prefers linemen who can play all over the line, which isn't always ideal, but it has its advantages. Due to his smarts, he could replace Mancz as Martin's backup.
Click to expand...
I watched the film and see it a little different. I just don't see the run blocking like a bull that you do - to me he doesn't move defenders back hardly at all. Not sure how he can move inside if he can't move anyone. What I did notice is that he knows how to keep his body between the defender and the QB when pass blocking. He anticipates moves and adjusts very nicely. I saw what you mentioned about struggling with speed and it looked to me that he was just a tad slow getting out of his stance. It doesn't look like it's an achilles heel to his game but he can be beat with speed. His profile mentions good instincts in pass protection and I think he has it in spades.
 
bah007 said:
I'm wondering if he's been red flagged for injury. I know some don't like him but based on tape he really shouldn't still be available.
Click to expand...

Yeah he peaked my interest as a steal at 68 along with Reid. but there’s something we don’t know about if he’s made it out of the 3rd round altogether.
 
bah007 said:
I'm wondering if he's been red flagged for injury. I know some don't like him but based on tape he really shouldn't still be available.
Click to expand...
The first game of his 2016 season, he injured his foot. He re-injured his foot trying to come back the next game, after which he underwent a surgical repair of a fracture. No specific report characterized the details of the fracture, but I have since discovered that his injury was Lisfranc fracture/tear........an issue that followed him through 2017.
 
Last edited:
My hope is Davenport LT and Rankins who can play either side starts at RT. Big D is not a RT. Also think FUller should begin season at RG and allow Allen to play his regular LG. I'm just not sold on Kelemete. Also would like to see Allen get some snaps at left tackle as he looked better than expected end of last season. Henderson back up RT for the one year we signed him for. Our Oline could turn into a solid long term positive from the crushing negative; especially if we get Colby Gossett OG.
 
CloakNNNdagger said:
The first game of his 2016 season, he injured his foot. He re-injured his foot trying to come back the next game, after which he underwent a surgical repair of a fracture. No specific report characterized the details of the fracture, but I have since discovered that his injury was Lisfranc fracture/tear........an issue that followed him through 2017.
Click to expand...
Hey Doc I heard one of the talking heads on NFL channel say there was "talk about concussion" on Tyler Crosby. You have any info on that?
 
Just wanted to say thank you to all the draftniks and others who have contributed to the forums lately on our picks! Appreciate all the background and info a lot fellas. Seems like a damn decent draft; hell maybe a real good one. Not shabby considering where we started in it. FeelsGoodMan.
 
badboy said:
My hope is Davenport LT and Rankins who can play either side starts at RT. Big D is not a RT. Also think FUller should begin season at RG and allow Allen to play his regular LG. I'm just not sold on Kelemete. Also would like to see Allen get some snaps at left tackle as he looked better than expected end of last season. Henderson back up RT for the one year we signed him for. Our Oline could turn into a solid long term positive from the crushing negative; especially if we get Colby Gossett OG.
Click to expand...

Are you assuming Fulton takes over as Center? I don't see him in the mix at G from you..
 
Joeseafus said:
Just wanted to say thank you to all the draftniks and others who have contributed to the forums lately on our picks! Appreciate all the background and info a lot fellas. Seems like a damn decent draft; hell maybe a real good one. Not shabby considering where we started in it. FeelsGoodMan.
Click to expand...

I'm not as optimistic as you about our draft but want to echo your thoughts:

We've got some damn good draftniks here. Thanks guys.
 
badboy said:
Hey Doc I heard one of the talking heads on NFL channel say there was "talk about concussion" on Tyler Crosby. You have any info on that?
Click to expand...
Just saw your post. Tyler Crosby had a history similar to Martinas..........injured at the beginning of 2016, went back to play for 2 games, then missed the rest of the season with a fractured foot which required surgery. Although never specified, I am suspicious that this was also a Lisfranc fracture/tear........and that's why his draft value dropped. He has had no concussion history that I am aware of. I believe the talking heads have him mixed up with Sidney Crosby the hockey player who has been in the news for multiple concussions and with the controversy of continuing to play. But Tyler is already off the board anyway.
 
vupac1 said:
Are you assuming Fulton takes over as Center? I don't see him in the mix at G from you..
Click to expand...
nah thanks for catching that, I want Fulton at RG with Fuller and Kelemete competing for back up. History with our line, we need to keep extra guys around in case of injury or flame out. Never again do I want to see poor play like we had from X and G or even Clarke and Lamm for that matter.
 
patriots used the 23rd pick of the first round on Guard Isaiah Wynn, Georgia whom they claim will compete for starting LT position. very similar player I think to Rankins, except Martinas has bigger frame. O’Brian maybe onto something or just following Belichick :ahhaha:
 
Ok just watched both play against Alabama and both played well. Wynn was really aceptional even though his body type doesn’t fit mold of a LT. He makes up for it with surprisingly light, quick feet, good technique and natural knee bend. However I don’t feel he fits spread or zone scheme so he may end up starting LG for Patriots. IMO

Rankin looks more like a LT, is very athletic, good movement skills but feet not as good and plays more upright. I think he is a really good LT project with starter potential. I really like pick more than I thought, just hope he can stay healthy and get the reps he needs to refine skill set to be Texans starting LT.
 
badboy said:
nah thanks for catching that, I want Fulton at RG with Fuller and Kelemete competing for back up. History with our line, we need to keep extra guys around in case of injury or flame out. Never again do I want to see poor play like we had from X and G or even Clarke and Lamm for that matter.
Click to expand...

Just give me the best 5 OL on the field at the same time. Kelemete will probably be one of those 5.
 
Max said:
I watched the film and see it a little different. I just don't see the run blocking like a bull that you do - to me he doesn't move defenders back hardly at all. Not sure how he can move inside if he can't move anyone. What I did notice is that he knows how to keep his body between the defender and the QB when pass blocking. He anticipates moves and adjusts very nicely. I saw what you mentioned about struggling with speed and it looked to me that he was just a tad slow getting out of his stance. It doesn't look like it's an achilles heel to his game but he can be beat with speed. His profile mentions good instincts in pass protection and I think he has it in spades.
Click to expand...

Agree with this take. He's got good movement but imo is inconsistent in his hand placement and depth in his drops in pass protection.


Not the most favorable review of Rankin below. I wonder how they are going to coach him up on holding his blocks in the run game. I'm not sure if it was a coaching issue at Miss St. or an issue with Rankin's strength/not locking in with proper hand placement but that is the biggest worry for me on the prospect. I like him and he has potential but just pointing out a weakness that dropped him to our slot in the 3rd.

 
beerlover said:
patriots used the 23rd pick of the first round on Guard Isaiah Wynn, Georgia whom they claim will compete for starting LT position. very similar player I think to Rankins, except Martinas has bigger frame. O’Brian maybe onto something or just following Belichick :ahhaha:
Click to expand...

Patriots have more options. They also traded for RT Trent Brown and still have Cannon and Waddle.
I'm sure they'll let him compete but don't need him there necessarily.


Espn:
As mammoth offensive tackle Trent Brown made his way up the steps to the field at Gillette Stadium on Thursday, it was an in-person reminder of a big part of Bill Belichick's offseason plan: Building more depth at offensive tackle.


Belichick's words from last November explain why.

"You want to have depth at every position, but those guys are hard to find. If you’re tackle-poor, I think that can show up a lot quicker than being poor at other positions," Belichick said. "Tackle, you can help them a little bit, but they’re single-blocking most of the game.

http://www.espn.com/blog/nflnation/...depth-was-big-part-of-patriots-offseason-plan

The Texans had a worse ot situation and made less upgrades in my view (brown> Henderson, Wynn>Rankin)
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top