Atlanta Falcons Potential First Round Pick: Cody Ford

Strengths

Cody Ford is known for being extremely quick for a man his size. He is also powerful enough to stymie a defensive lineman on initial contact. The unusual combination of size and quickness, gives Cody Ford great scheme versatility and allows him to play in a power or zone blocking scheme in the NFL.

Ford possess the quickness to get quickly down field to block linebackers at the second level. Yet he is also powerful with good hands, giving him the ability to open up holes in the run game. This size and quickness combination helps Cody Ford as a pass blocker too. He is able to stand his ground against the bull rush, and at the same time he is quick enough to prevent edge rushers from getting around him.

This video posted by John Ledyard of The Draft Network, shows Cody Ford’s power and footwork at right tackle via Twitter:

Cody Ford graded an impressive 85.1 as a pass blocker by Pro Football Focus. They charged him with only seven quarterback pressures allowed in 877 snaps. Ford is also known for playing with a nasty streak. He plays to the echo of the whistle. This can sometimes draw penalties, but is a valuable trait for an offensive linemen to possess in the physical NFL.

Weaknesses

One weakness Cody Ford has that could hurt him at the NFL level, is the pad level he plays with. Being 6’4, it is often very difficult for Ford to get lower than his opponent. This could be a leverage issue, when dealing with NFL defensive linemen who possess strength and use sound technique. Pad level is especially key in short yardage situations.

Another weakness Cody Ford possess is undeveloped footwork. While Ford has all of the physical tools, he needs some coaching and refinement on foot placement. He has a tendency to kick his leg too high on some pass blocking attempts. He was also graded a pedestrian 72.2 as a run blocker by Pro Football Focus. The staff at the Draft Network offered this comprehensive Cody Ford scouting report.