The precocious nature of tackle Rashawn Slater has earned him a reputation as a sharp, technically sound blocker and a tough player at the line of scrimmage, who’s already capable of stymieing one of the league’s best pass rushers.
Only months into practice and some of his fellow brothers in the trenches have already taken note of how the rookie is adapting to the NFL and how he’s applying it in on the field
“He’s a hard worker. He’s got grit. He wants to learn. As a tackle – an offensive lineman, really – that’s what you need to do. You need to learn from your mistakes and ask questions. He’s asking all the right questions,” Matt Feiler said.
The revamped offensive line is capable of having plenty of success this season but in order for it to all come to fruition, the unit must be on the same page at all times, which is why Slater’s communication skills have been above par.
He’s been asking questions. I know he has been talking to Bryan [Bulaga] a bunch about playing tackle. There is only so much communication that the interior guys can help with. He’s received all of that. He’s a great dude and works hard. He’s a great player,” Corey Linsley said.
It’s not an easy task protecting the blindside from Day 1 in this league, but from a mental, physical and technical standpoint, Slater is tailor-made for the NFL, with potential to be an All-Pro player down the road.