One of the most physically imposing presences in the 2023 NFL draft, this prospect also has some impressive results on the gridiron.
O’Cyrus Torrence, offensive guard, Florida
Height: 6-foot-5
Weight: 330 pounds (at Combine)
Torrence turned 23 in January
Torrence was a well-regarded prospect as a three-year starter at Louisiana before following head coach Billy Napier to Florida for his final season. Playing right guard in front of QB Anthony Richardson, Torrence quickly proved capable of making the jump from the Sun Belt to the SEC. He did not allow a single sack in 2022, matching his clean slate with the Ragin Cajuns from 2021. Torrence earned a Senior Bowl berth.
Pros
- Did not allow a single sack credited to him in his entire college career
- His power as a run blocker is wildly impressive. Strong shoulders, powerful wrists and heavy hands help him create real movement even against stout DTs. Best people-mover in the draft.
- Thick without being overly hefty
- Consistently excellent hands for a taller lineman with his initial punch and hand placement in combat
- Good knee bender that doesn’t get caught being too tall
- Anchor strength is above-average vs. bull rush
- Quick enough feet to sustain blocks on the move without holding
- Strong competitor who will play to the last breath of the whistle
- Four-year starter who has played both left and right guard
- Pitched a shutout in pass protection vs. Georgia’s Jalen Carter
- Timing and leg drive on combo blocks is NFL-ready
Cons
- Not twitchy off the snap
- Lateral range is below average despite having decent feet
- Quickly proved unable to play tackle during Senior Bowl week
- Doesn’t recover block well other than a strong desperation shove
- Can engage second-level targets but isn’t nearly as effective as he is at attacking linemen in the run game
- Not a good fit for an outside-zone scheme if the offense changes
- Benefitted from playing in front of mobile QBs at both Louisiana and Florida that could escape his occasional mistakes
Overall
A four-year starter who did not have a single sack credited to him in over 1,700 pass protection snaps, Torrence has an outstanding collegiate pedigree — especially considering he’s best known for his run-blocking ability. He doesn’t have elite athleticism or great range as a blocker, but Torrence is effective with his length and strength. He offers impressive technique and good competitive focus.
His power and straightforward athleticism fit what the Lions want from their guards in a gap-blocking scheme. Torrence projects as a ready-made starter as a rookie with experience playing both left and right guard. He should be in play for the Lions in the second round, perhaps the late first round.
