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As we approach training camp and the NFL pre-season, I’ll be taking a look at some of the Atlanta Falcons 2012 draft picks. This week, the focus is on the first pick Atlanta took in this year’s draft, Peter Konz.
At 6-feet-5, 317 pounds, Konz is a formidable space-eater on the offensive line. Coming out of Wisconsin, he was projected to go late in the first round by most draft analysts. ESPN draft analyst Mel Kiper rated him as the top center in the 2012 draft. “He has no peers in this draft,” Kiper said. He is considered quick and agile for his size, but need to improve on his upper body strength. He can pull on sweeps and is able to knock down moving linemen, which was a considerable weakness of the Falcons offensive line last season. The line’s lack of mobility and speed was cited when former offensive coordinator Mike Mularkey was asked about why he didn’t call more screen plays and toss sweeps last season.
It’s more than likely that Konz will start the 2012 season at the right guard position for Atlanta, and then eventually take over at the center position when veteran Todd McClure makes his exit. As a pass blocker he has a solid frame with a filled-out body and impressive muscle definition. Tapes show he sinks his hips well, and plays with consistent pad level. He has very strong hands, and is able to sustain blocks for long periods of time.
In run blocking, Konz is very physical and powerful, with a lot of strength at the point of attack. His agility and quickness will let him block well in space and pull towards either sideline. The right side of the line, where Atlanta showed weakness last year in run blocking, will greatly benefit from his knack for keeping his eyes up and always looking for someone to block.
One thing Konz will have to adjust to in Atlanta is the heat. He is a native of Wisconsin and is unaccustomed to the raw heat and humidity that will be experienced here in the south. When asked about how he was dealing with the heat, his response was, “Do they have like those little air conditioners in the helmets yet? I heard the humidity is horrible down here.”
Coaches were very pleased with Konz’s performance at the rookie mini-camp. The real work and competition for Konz will now begin when training camp opens in July.
