Jack Nelson, a 6’7″, 314-pound offensive tackle from Wisconsin, is projected as a Day 3 selection in the 2025 NFL Draft. With 50 career starts—37 at left tackle and 13 at right guard—Nelson offers versatility and experience. His strengths include effective run blocking and solid lateral movement, particularly in zone schemes. However, scouts note areas for improvement in pass protection, such as anchor strength and footwork under pressure.
Several teams have been linked to Nelson as potential landing spots:
Cleveland Browns
The Cleveland Browns are evaluating Nelson as a potential addition to bolster their offensive line depth. His fit in zone-blocking schemes aligns with Cleveland’s offensive strategy. Nelson’s athleticism and experience make him a suitable candidate to serve as a swing tackle, providing valuable depth behind starters. His ability to play guard and tackle positions adds versatility to the Browns’ offensive line.
Times will arise in outside zone schemes when offensive coordinator Kevin Stefanski and line coach Bill Callahan can best activate Nelson to make impactful run-game plays. Nelson has the ability to transform into a trusted starting position through improved pass blocking techniques, which will secure the Browns’ offensive line for years ahead.
Las Vegas Raiders
In a recent mock draft, the Las Vegas Raiders selected Nelson in the later rounds to add depth to their offensive line. Nelson’s size and experience make him an attractive option for the Raiders, who are looking to develop young talent to support their offensive front.
Nelson’s future role as a Raiders lineman would be shaped by coaching staff training, enhancing his ability to play various positions across the offensive line. The Raiders will benefit from Nelson’s run-blocking expertise when executing their offensive scheme, through which he could transform into a vital asset in both pass protection and support.
Washington Commanders
The Washington Commanders are considering Nelson among five offensive tackles for Day 3 selections, valuing his consistency and potential to contribute early. Nelson’s experience and work ethic make him a strong candidate to provide depth and competition along the offensive line.
Head coach Ron Rivera and offensive line coach Travelle Wharton should use Nelson’s defensive capabilities by implementing gap-blocking schemes. As Nelson devotes himself to enhancing his passing protection abilities, he positions himself to become a reliable football player who can fill in when requested and unlock a possible starting position.
Houston Texans
A mock draft projects the Houston Texans picking Nelson at No. 241 overall, suggesting he is a fit for teams seeking developmental depth on the offensive line. Nelson’s size and run-blocking abilities make him a suitable candidate for the Texans, who are looking to build a strong foundation for their offensive unit.
As head coach DeMeco Ryans leads the team alongside offensive line coach Chris Strausser, they can turn Nelson into a dependable backup who could be a starter. The Texans gain flexibility in their offensive line management because Nelson can play guard and tackle positions.
Kansas City Chiefs
The Kansas City Chiefs evaluate Nelson through examples that show his college experience and believe that guard is his NFL position for long-term success, while also helping their offensive line options. Nelson’s flexibility and NFL experience make him a great candidate for the Chiefs to strengthen their offensive line.
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Nelson’s skill set would complement the Chiefs’ interior line, fitting well into head coach Andy Reid’s and offensive line coach Andy Heck’s schemes, particularly in pass protection and run blocking.
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