2021 NFL Draft: 7 Prospects whose success is tied to team fit

There’s no denying the talent of these 2021 NFL Draft prospects but, if they don’t end up on the right teams for one reason or another, they could fail to reach their potential. 

Talent is obviously critical to any football player have success in the NFL. But in the 2021 NFL Draft and every other draft class, we sometimes underestimate the value of team fit. Whether it’s scheme, culture, a combination of many things, or something else, fit matters a great deal — but to some players more than others.

Not every defensive back fits every defensive scheme. We all know not all quarterbacks can fit any scheme. A power back can’t play in outside-zone running schemes. A possession, in-breaking receiver may not fit in a wide-open offense. Press corners who never played zone may not work in a Cover-3 base defense. There are hybrid safeties who couldn’t work in a 3-4 but may work as an outside linebacker in a 4-3. And the list goes on

Too often, the success and failures of a player are predicated on where he goes. In the 2021 NFL Draft, some prospects are scheme versatile. Players like Micah Parsons, Ja’Marr Chase, Travis Etienne, Jaelan Phillips, Najee Harris and Penei Sewell are a few prospects that can play in any scheme.

But though it’s not limited to this group, these seven highly touted prospects in the 2021 NFL Draft have success that is dependent upon where they land.

7. Samuel Cosmi, OT, Texas

When it comes to the tackle position. Protecting your quarterback is priority number one, but not all tackles are created equal. This draft isn’t top-heavy with tackle talent, but there will at least three taken in the first round. One of the names who’ll be called at some point late on Day 1 or in the second round is Texas offensive tackle Samuel Cosmi.

There’s a lot to like about a 6-6, 314-pound tackle with elite traits. He’s extremely athletic as evident by his 4.89-second 40-yard dash at Texas’ Pro Day. With solid length and elite traits, it’s easy to fall in love with the idea of Cosmi — but he’s not for everyone.

Sure, he has the potential to line up on the left side. However, his struggle with leverage and hip placement makes him a right tackle.

For starters, he’s not very strong at the point of attack. he uses his athleticism and quickness as a run blocker instead. He’s more of a shield blocker than a mover. So, his best fit is a zone-scheme that doesn’t ask him power run block.