Christian Haynes, IOL, Connecticut
Size:
Height: 6’3”
Weight: 317 pounds
Arm Length: 33 1/2"
Hand Size: 9”
Accomplishments:
Third Team AP All-American (2023, 2022)
“An outstanding technician and athlete, Christian Haynes is a true headliner at the interior offensive line position and an immediate impact starter.”
Strengths:
Excellent in wide zone blocking schemes where his athleticism and technique blossom
Solid in pass protection, anchors well, and has reactive feet and hands
Fantastic athlete—strong and explosive
Concerns:
Size concerns limit his versatility
Length could hinder his pass protection at the next level
Film Analysis:
Christian Haynes brings a really unique skill set to the 2024 draft class. While his size doesn’t jump off the page, Hayne’s athleticism makes up for any physical deficiencies and then some.
When you watch Haynes on tape, you'll quickly realize that he is an NFL-ready offensive lineman. He excels in wide zone blocking schemes, demonstrating a seamless ability to cut off backside defenders, engage linebackers at the second level, and effectively handle anything in front of him as a playside blocker.
Running a Shanahan-esque offense at UCONN, it's easy to see how valuable an offensive lineman like Haynes could be for several NFL offenses. Nevertheless, Haynes is highly proficient in any run scheme he's asked to execute. His identity as a finisher and his unwavering desire to dominate is evident on film; he always seeks to make his presence felt by opposing defenses. Haynes fits the mold of a dependable, mainstay offensive lineman.
When evaluating him as an athlete, it’s impossible to overlook his power and explosiveness. He thrives on taking the fight to his defenders and stands out as one of the quicker interior linemen in the class. In pass protection, he demonstrates quick reactions and adeptly diagnoses rushes, allowing him to regain leverage and readjust his position to withstand rush attempts. Haynes is active with his hands and has a strong first strike.
Haynes' concern as a prospect is his arm length when facing the NFL's numerous elite defensive tackles with elite measurables, but his high motor and natural ability to recover and adjust will keep NFL personnel confident in his ability to be a productive NFL player
While his size will limit him exclusively to the interior positions of the offensive line, being able to transition to center if needed could make Haynes one of the most sought-after interior linemen in this year's draft. Haynes warrants legitimate consideration in the early rounds as a plug-and-play offensive lineman.
Prospect Projection: Day 2 — Winning starter
Exposures: NC State (2023), Duke (2023), Rice (2023), Utah State (2023)
