Unlike many prospects in this year’s NFL Draft, Donovan Jennings has been a collegiate starter for the better part of a decade.
The USF left tackle was facing Memphis in an AAC clash in 2020 as the Bulls sought to keep a drive alive on third-and-10 on USF’s own 25-yard line. And Jennings played an important role.
A defender tried to outrace him to the outside at the onset of the play, but Jennings stopped him with ease. Then the opponent tried cutting back inside, and Jennings shuffled his feet and remained in front.
And by then it was too late for a sack. USF had the time it needed to complete a pass downfield for a first down.
Jennings proved all the way back then he could be a good tackle. And now he might get to show what he can do in the NFL.
Donovan Jennings Draft Projection
I project Jennings will be selected in the seventh round of the NFL Draft. Teams like the Broncos or the Lions would be good fits.
Jennings could conceivably play guard or tackle, which may impact his landing spot. But he clearly can help a team with his combination of skill and experience.
What Was Donovan Jennings’ 40 Time?
Jennings ran the 40-yard dash in 5.02 seconds at his pro day, according to The Athletic. That would’ve been among the top 10 offensive linemen at the NFL Combine.
At 6-foot-4, 323 pounds, Jennings also bench pressed 28 reps, which would’ve tied for eighth, while recording a vertical jump of 28 inches, a short-shuttle time of 4.7 seconds, and a three-cone drill time of 7.6 seconds.
Donovan Jennings’ Stats And Highlights
Jennings played at least 200 snaps at left tackle each of the past six seasons at USF.
He didn’t let very much get past him this past season. He allowed just 18 quarterback pressures with 14 hurries, two QB hits, and two sacks allowed in 2023. Among offensive tackles who played at least 200 snaps in this year’s draft class, he ranked 13th in Pro Football Focus’ grades for pass blocking.
The year before, he started four games before an ankle injury ended his season. He allowed six pressures with no sacks during that time.
In 2021, he gave up 14 pressures with three sacks. Going all the way back to 2018, he allowed 73 pressures and just eight sacks over six years.
Donovan Jennings’ NFL Comparison And Draft Profile
I project Jennings’ playing style in the NFL will be similar to Charles Leno Jr. He also used to play for a Group of Five school – Boise State – before being drafted in the seventh round by the Chicago Bears in 2014.
Jennings has a big frame that makes it tough for anyone to get past him. But even with that size, he had some agility and is often quick out of his stance.
Jennings maintains a good pad level and has good hand technique, as he keeps his hands near the middle of defenders’ chests. He also knows how to keep good leverage, which helps him anchor and prevent many opponents from pushing him back.
Jennings also makes good decisions. He recognizes defensive fronts quickly and knows who to block when faced with blitzes and stunts.
Jennings is a talented offensive lineman who could make an impact if given the opportunity in the NFL.
