more on donovan jennings:
by
Justin Melo
Feb 13, 2024 • 9:48 am
South Florida’s Donovan Jennings is one of the most experienced offensive line prospects in the 2024 NFL Draft. Jennings departs the Bulls after playing in a program-record 54 games. He’s currently making the transition from offensive tackle to guard. Teams will appreciate that experience and versatility. Jennings recently displayed his abilities at guard in the East-West Shrine Bowl.
Jennings recently spoke exclusively with The Draft Network about his week-long appearance at the East-West Shrine Bowl, what he proved to the scouts in attendance, making the transition from tackle to guard, which NFL teams are showing interest in his services, and more.
JM: You recently participated in the East-West Shrine Bowl. What do you think you proved to NFL scouts and decision-makers in attendance?
Donovan Jennings:
I think I proved I’m a versatile player. Coming into the week playing guard, I was used to playing left tackle at South Florida. I came in with the mindset to improve every single day while I’m making that transition.
I’m working on the different techniques necessary that it takes to be a great guard at the next level. I proved that I could play guard throughout my showing at the East-West Shrine Bowl. NFL scouts saw me put that on display.
JM: You essentially played 54 games as an offensive tackle at South Florida. It sounds like you feel good about making the transition to guard.
Donovan Jennings: I’m happy with how the transition is going. I didn’t know what to expect heading into the East-West Bowl, but I feel really great coming out of it though. I think I was downright dominant at times.
I showcased my athleticism. Athletic movements helped me at tackle, so it should definitely help me at guard where my opponents are a little less athletic than those edge rushers are. Strength and get-off were also on display. I can play in those tight quarters. I think it went great.
JM: I bet there’s a lot of interest in you. Which NFL teams did you meet with extensively at the Shrine Bowl?
Donovan Jennings:
I met with a bunch of great teams. I’m thankful to each and every one of them that took time out of their schedule to meet with me. My meeting with the Green Bay Packers went very well. I had a great time with the New York Jets and Seattle Seahawks as well. Those three meetings went particularly well.
JM: How would you write your own scouting report as a left tackle? What’s at the forefront of your physical skill set?
Donovan Jennings: My athleticism comes first and foremost. I have a background as a basketball player. My athletic ability to redirect is pretty rare. I’m a heavier-set dude that moves very well for 328 pounds. My physical ability allows me to move people off the ball. I’m a strong and powerful blocker. I can bend well. I have an all-around skill set to be a great football player.
JM: Is Donovan Jennings more advanced in pass protection, or as a run blocker?
Donovan Jennings: I’d say I’m pretty advanced in both areas. I’m probably a bit more advanced as a run blocker. I love my athletic ability and my ability to redirect in the run game.
I’m still improving in anchoring down and having great hand placement in pass protection. You can never stop improving. Getting those little things down pact will help me take my game to the next level.
JM: As you continue to learn the guard position, if you could sit down with any offensive guard in the NFL and pick their brain, who would you choose and why?
Donovan Jennings: I would probably choose O’Cyrus Torrence. Coming from Florida, I followed his rookie season along closely with the Buffalo Bills this season.
He hit the ground running as a rookie. That’s exactly what I hope to do next season. He played in a lot of games as a rookie. I think I have the capability to make a similar contribution. I want to play right away. I’d love to pick O’Cyrus Torrence’s brain.
JM: We’ve appreciated your time today. Why should a team use one of their picks on Donovan Jennings in the 2024 NFL Draft?
Donovan Jennings:
You’re not just getting a great football player. You’re getting a great human being as well. I’m willing to do whatever it takes to help my teammates. I’m an extremely hard worker that’s a team-oriented guy who loves being around the locker room. I love building those relationships.
You’re also going to get a fast, physical, and athletic offensive lineman. I’m proving my versatility throughout this process. I think any team would be blessed to have me in the 2024 NFL Draft.