Troy Fautanu was one of the best players for the Washington Huskies throughout the 2023 season and as he’s cemented his status as a first round pick in the 2024 NFL draft, scouts are starting to realize just how talented the All-American left tackle is.
One person who has sung Fautanu’s praises lately is Pro Football Focus’ Trevor Sikkema, who gave him multiple superlative titles as he analyzed what is a star-studded group of offensive linemen.
The PFF analyst called Fautanu the best athlete at the position and while he didn’t name any other players that he was considering, his teammate Roger Rosengarten was certainly in consideration after a strong performance at the NFL combine.
“If you just went and watched Fautanu’s combine workout and didn’t know anything about him, you might think he’s a super-sized tight end. That’s how well this guy moves,” Sikkema said.
Troy Fautanu is the snatch trap king of this class.
Has the most varied hand usage in pass pro at offensive tackle. pic.twitter.com/sJCCNshpIk
— Jordan de Lugo (@jordandelugo) March 18, 2024
“He’s played left tackle for Washington, and with 34-plus-inch arms, he could end up staying there in the NFL. Nonetheless, his 6-foot-3 frame also gives him great leverage inside, and his first-step explosiveness gives him power there, too. Fautanu can be a starting-caliber offensive lineman at all five spots due to his coordination and athletic ability.”
He also called Fautanu the most versatile player in the draft. Coming into the combine, many scouts had him slated to play along the interior of the line but following his measurements in Indianapolis, NFL teams have begun to look at him as a flexible option that can play guard or tackle.
“This is due to his unique build,” Sikkema said. “He has long enough arms and quick enough feet to play tackle, yet is shorter in height and explosive enough to generate leverage and power on the interior. He really could play all five spots. [Cooper] Beebe from Kansas State also has a lot of versatility on his resume, he just isn’t as athletic as Fautanu.”