Power – Tippmann has plenty of raw power to stun and cause oncoming rushers to retreat
Hands – tremendous punch power and grip strength are evident on tape
Finisher – always completes a play and beyond, never one to take plays off
Athleticism – moves incredibly well, gets out into open space and to the 2nd level quickly
Fluidity – moves well in pass protection sets, seems well coordinated
Anchor – is able to sit into protection assignments and use his strong anchor to work well against bull-rushes
Awareness – continually looks around him to identify the most obvious threats, always looking for work
Explosiveness – quick up out of stance to engage defensive linemen
‘Feldman Freak’ – on Bruce Feldman’s freak list this year – explosive 10-yard split on 40-yard dash
Character – coaches and fellow players speak highly of his character and leadership
WEAKNESSES
Height – for an interior lineman, has to work hard to get underneath opponent’s pads
Holding – 6 holding penalties in 2022 – will need to clean this up under more intense scrutiny at the NFL level
Punch timing – can be beaten to the punch by savvy defenders allowing them into his chest to control reps
Footwork – more comfortable getting out in space than short area footwork in pass protection
SUMMARY
Wisconsin Badgers interior offensive lineman Joe Tippmann has all the tools to be a day 1 starter in the NFL. His athleticism and power in the run game, coupled with strong anchor and movement skills in the passing game are sure to hold up well to scrutiny during the draft process. Taller and leaner than traditional centres, Tippmann may find that he is used more as a guard initially, particularly with his ability to pull in the run game. However, I think this is something he will be able to take to with ease and teams will be getting a game-ready starter if they draft Tippmann on day 2
