By JAMES FOSTER, special correspondent
NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- When evaluating rookie offensive linemen, it’s important to have realistic expectations and grade them on a bit of a curve.
Tackles like Tristan Wirfs, Rashawn Slater and Joe Alt, who play at Pro Bowl levels as rookies, come along once every few years. But most good tackles struggle in their first season as they adjust to the jump in competition level. JC Latham’s first year in the NFL had some up and down moments, but was ultimately a success by rookie tackle standards. While there are certainly areas he needs to improve, I’m optimistic that Latham will be a long-term quality starter at right tackle.
These are my skill ratings for JC Latham based on his rookie tape. The ratings are relative to NFL starters, with 50 = adequate, 25 = poor, and 75 = very good:
