Ethan Driskell often helped Marshall set the tone early in games over the past couple years.
On their first possession against UAlbany this past season, the Thundering Herd handed off to running back Rasheen Ali on a play designed to go to the left. At the snap, Driskell pushed an opponent back and created a wide running lane for Ali, who then ran all the way to the end zone.
The Thundering Herd often leaned on Driskell, their left tackle, and he didn’t usually disappoint. Now he’ll have a chance to show what he can do in the NFL.
Driskell was asked at the NFL Combine if he preferred a zone or gap blocking scheme. He doesn’t really care, though.
“Anything where we’re running the ball,” Driskell said. “One of my favorite things is creating that seam for Rasheen Ali and looking up on the Jumbotron as he’s taking it 60. That’s one of the best feelings in the world.”
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Ethan Driskell Draft Projection
I project Driskell will be selected in the fourth round of the NFL Draft. Teams like the Las Vegas Raiders or the Pittsburgh Steelers would be good fits.
Driskell said he has a countdown clock on his phone for the draft. He’s eager for his chance to compete at the next level.
“Just being in the moment,” Driskell said. “Just soaking it up, take it day by day, and enjoy the process.”
Ethan Driskell’s 40 Time And NFL Combine Performance
Driskell was invited to the NFL Combine, but he didn’t participate in any measurable drills there or at his pro day.
Ethan Driskell’s Stats And Highlights
Driskell emerged as one of the best tackles in the Sun Belt in 2023, making the all-conference third team.
He gave up 20 quarterback pressures with 15 hurries, two QB hits, and three sacks allowed last season. After becoming Marshall’s starting left tackle in 2022, he also gave up 20 pressures that year with 12 hurries, four QB hits, and four sacks given up.
Before that, he played in 13 games in 2021 as a reserve offensive lineman. He also played in nine of 10 games in 2020, making an impact on special teams, and redshirted in 2019.
“I was under two coaching staffs there,” Driskell said. “Whenever Coach (Charles) Huff came in, they really got a lot more out of me from the previous stuff before. They push me each and every day to be the best version of myself, and that ultimately led me to where I’m at now.”
Ethan Driskell’s NFL Comparison And Draft Profile
I project Driskell’s playing style in the NFL will be similar to Josh Ball of the Dallas Cowboys. Driskell played with Ball at Marshall, and Driskell said he emulates his game after Ball and called him a “great mentor.”
Driskell said at the combine he plans on learning from the established veterans of whatever team he ends up with. He’s constantly seeking to improve different elements of his game, like his pad level.
While Driskell primarily played left tackle the past two seasons at Marshall, he said he’s comfortable on either side.
“There’s some little technical differences,” he said. “It may feel a little different, but for the most part, it’s the same job. Protect the quarterback and do your job.”
While Driskell could overextend himself and get out of position at times, he did a good job of finishing blocks in college. He sometimes drove defenders to the ground for good measure.
Driskell maintains a good base in pass protection and maintains good foot and hand technique. On run plays, he kept his hands inside and kept his feet moving.
While he didn’t test at the NFL Combine, he does have some mobility. He’s fast enough to pull if needed.
Though he played in the Sun Belt, Driskell showcased he has a skill set which would benefit an NFL team.
“It doesn’t really matter what conference it is,” Driskell said. “It doesn’t matter if it’s Louisiana Monroe or Alabama. You’ve just got to go out there and work and compete.”
