Six Washington Huskies Will Join Pros Via 2018 NFL Draft

Dec 26, 2015; Dallas, TX, USA; Washington Huskies defensive lineman Vita Vea (50) carries the trophy after the game against the Southern Miss Golden Eagles at Cotton Bowl Stadium. Washington won 44-31. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 26, 2015; Dallas, TX, USA; Washington Huskies defensive lineman Vita Vea (50) carries the trophy after the game against the Southern Miss Golden Eagles at Cotton Bowl Stadium. Washington won 44-31. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports /
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Sep 24, 2016; Tucson, AZ, USA; Washington Huskies quarterback Jake Browning (3) and offensive lineman Andrew Kirkland (73) high five after scoring against the Arizona Wildcats during the second quarter at Arizona Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Casey Sapio-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 24, 2016; Tucson, AZ, USA; Washington Huskies quarterback Jake Browning (3) and offensive lineman Andrew Kirkland (73) high five after scoring against the Arizona Wildcats during the second quarter at Arizona Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Casey Sapio-USA TODAY Sports /

NFL Prospect VI: OL Andrew Kirkland

Offensive lineman Andrew Kirkland isarguably the most experienced Washington Huskies offensive lineman. Now he’s a year older, more experienced, and turning towards leading the offensive line into a new season. He’s a versatile player, having seen duty at both tackle spots as well as both guard roles.

Now, offensive linemen are not the headliner roles as other positions are in the NFL. In fact, the less you hear about a college lineman, the better they are.  But don’t let the absence of press fool you.  There are plenty of praises to heap on the offensive line. Each run, each pass, relies upon the seconds of resistance afforded by the sacrifices of those linemen.  Andrew Kirkland is not only quite good, but he’s quite versatile.

Kirkland is getting looks at multiple offensive line positions this off-season. That doesn’t mean he doesn’t have a full time role. It simply means the offensive line is seeking the best five talents.  Kirkland’s versatility ensures that he will be on the field. It simply means he won’t be locked in for some time.

Next: Washington Huskies RB Myles Gaskin Going Beast Mode

The key to the entire season is that offensive line. And the key to that offensive line is senior Andrew Kirkland. Right now, Adam Jude of the Seattle Times projects Kirkland as the starting left guard.  He had plenty of looks there, but slid out to left tackle occasionally to give right guard reserve Henry Roberts some experience at left guard.

In the end, Kirkland will be there making plays without headlines. And you will know how good he played if the Huskies win.

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