Trench Talk Thursday: Early Risers in the Offensive Trenches

We're heading to the offensive side of the trenches today to highlight a group of talented and rising OL who are off to good starts this season.    Barbour is someone we highlighted a few months back as a potential breakout guy, and so far he's on pace to do exactly that. He's playing with good leverage and a strong base, and his hand placement is consistently where you want it. He keeps his hands inside, doesn't get wide, and plays with a violent edge when he gets into a defender. My favorite part, though, is how he'll bury a guy into the ground and then immediately reach down to help him back up. I think that says a lot about his character. He plays nasty between the whistles but knows when the rep is over, and that's always a good sign.     Thorpe is a big-framed tackle who looks the part on the outside. He's got good power and leg drive, especially in the running game where he can move guys off the ball and create lanes. His footwork in pass pro is solid, and he plays with a good base that helps him stay balanced and under control. He can move laterally and doesn't look stiff when he's asked to handle speed off the edge. I like the combination of size and power he has on the outside and think he's continuing to improve with good upside.     Bakhadir has been consistent on both sides of the ball to start the year and looks good up front. He's getting off the ball quickly, playing with strong hands, and doing a nice job clearing lanes in the running game. Defensively, he's been active and has found his way into the backfield for a few TFLs each week. I like the motor and how he's impacting the game regardless of which side he's playing. He's off to a solid start and looks like someone they can rely on up front every Friday.     Felker has been good on the interior and plays with good effort from start to finish. He finishes blocks, plays through the whistle, and looks for work when there's nobody directly in front of him. I like his ability to move guys in the running game and create some space when he gets his hands locked in. He bends well for an interior lineman and can get out in open space to lead the way when asked. He's looked comfortable on the move and has been a steady piece up front early in the year.     Montgomery has looked good early with a quick first step and good power up front. You can tell he's worked on his frame, and the added strength is helping round out his game. He's getting good drive in the running game and has held up well in pass pro when asked to sit back and protect. He also strikes me as a smart player who understands the scheme and what they're trying to accomplish up front, which has helped him play fast and confidently.

We're heading to the offensive side of the trenches today to highlight a group of talented and rising OL who are off to good starts this season.