Yesterday I mentioned how much I enjoy when I watch a prospect’s tape and then get to see them in person – Platt also brought me that joy during the PSR Big Showcase. What I saw in person only adds to my previous evaluation on Platt. First thing I observed was how Platt has no quit in him. He never gives up on a play and competes to the whistle. He possesses great balance and a square stance, allowing him to be positioned to handle any type of rush thrown at him. Platt also took great pass protection sets, which had him victorious during numerous matchups throughout the afternoon.

The Pope John Lions have a massive specimen who specializes in the trenches. At 6’5″ 260lb OT Justin Platt Justin Platt 6'5" | 260 lbs | OL Pope John XXIII | 2024 NJ towers over just about everyone on the field. He contributed on defensive as well, credited with 12 tackles, 2 TFL, and 1 blocked kick.

What impressed me the most about this young lineman was his ability to bend. A lineman’s bend, or general flexibility, is a severely underrated attribute in my opinion. It allows you to play with leverage, prevents injury, and increases your muscles’ carrying capacity. You can also see this general athleticism on display when Platt is asked to move in space. Platt is ahead of his peers in this regard. Platt also possesses strong fundamentals when run blocking. He does as he is coached, loading his hands and violently punching defenders. He gets to the second level with ease and continues to drive LBs away from the play. Platt also possesses quick feet in pass protection, never being out of position. One area I would coach Platt up on is his pass protection form. To me, it seems that he has a forward lean when pass protecting. This makes him more inclined to lunge forward, and thus vulnerable to a defender who uses his hands well. Platt should keep a flat back and “sit” when in pass protection, wait and invite the defender to come towards him – his feet are more than quick enough to stay in front of rushers and his punch is strong enough that they will be frozen in their tracks.

There is a lot to like about Platt heading into his senior year. With ideal size to play any position on the o-line at the next level, the uncanny ability to bend, and being well coached, the sky is the limit for this sure-bet college prospect.