Player Profile: Antoine Caldwell Alabama Center

Pros: Caldwell was a two-time team captain and the leader of Alabama’s dominating offensive line. During his four years at Bama, Caldwell started at tackle, guard, and center showing great instincts and awareness. He was very durable and never missed a game due to injury with well over 40 starts under his belt as a member of the Crimson Tide. Caldwell is a strong pass protector and is tough, not at all afraid to mix it up. The center is also an instinctive player who understands blocking schemes, can make line calls, and pick up a teammate when need be.

Cons: Despite taking good angles, he struggles to get down the line. He doesn’t show the quickness and agility needed to dominate at the pro level. He will have to bulk up in the weight room and maintain his quickness to be a starter in the league. Even with his experience at tackle, he is best suited to play center or guard in the pros. Caldwell will struggle with quick defensive tackles who use their athleticism to get into the backfield. He needs to get stronger, improve his balance, and do a better job of bending at the knees. While he is renown for his leadership skills, the center comes in with some character questions as he served a four game suspension for a textbook scandal in 2007.

Scout’s Take: Caldwell earned his college degree in three years. He is a bright young man and possesses the intelligence and leadership qualities (won the 2008 Mal Moore Leadership Award at Alabama) to head the offensive line if the physical part of his game catches up. Caldwell has the ability to be a solid starter for years to come but lacks the potential to climb to that Pro Bowl level, which is why he will likely have to wait until day two to hear his name called. He's likely to go somewhere between rounds three and five.

Photo Credit: SEC Sports Media