With the 214th pick in the 2011 NFL Draft, the Houston Texans selected Derek Newton, offensive tackle from Arkansas State.
Newton is a second team All-Sun Belt Conference selection at the left tackle position, with 14 starts his senior season. Newton comes to Houston as a swing player that can help back up Eric Winston or bump down inside to a guard position.
More after the jump...
Tale of the Tape
Hometown: Utica, Mississippi
Height: 6'5"
Weight: 311 lbs.
40 yd. time: 5.01
Bench @ 225 lbs.: 24
Awards
2010 First Team All-Sun Belt Conference
2009 Second Team All-Sun Belt Conference
2009 Gary Withrow Award (outstanding offensive lineman)
2008 JUCO: First Team All-State Selection
2008 Played in the Mississippi Junior College All-Star Game
Newton was a two-year player at Hinds Community College and ended up at Arkansas St. to finish his collegiate career. He was considered the most consistent Red Wolves lineman since joining in 2009.
Derek has been looked at as a player who can grow into bigger and better things. He excels at run blocking and is considered a perfect fit for the Texans' zone blocking scheme. Newton has some athleticism and shows toughness when engaged in blocking and has good legs to drive in the run game.
One big knock on him was his arm length, and that is why many project him to move down to the guard position.
Newton will be another project for the Texans, but his speed getting to the second level is what intrigued the scouts. His big body and overall potential is a welcome addition to the Texans roster.