Size is a good place to start when it comes to scouting offensive lineman. Thankfully, not unlike fellow 2025 commit Owen Strebig, who I’ve discussed previously, Will Black does not lack in that department. Standing at 6’7", and weighing a little under 300 pounds, Black already exhibits the prototypical size you would want in somebody tasked in protecting a quarterback’s blindside. Height and weight do not always equal success, but in his case, it amplifies an already well defined skill-set that will only get better with coaching at the next level. When Marcus Freeman named true freshman Anthonie Knapp the starting left tackle in week one of the 2024 season, he showed he is not afraid to play young athletes with potential. There are not many players in the 2025 class with more potential than Will Black. Let’s break down some traits that contributed to Black’s lofty 5-star status.
As always, the criteria evaluated will be on a scale of 1 (Poor) to 7 (Elite).
Photo via Will Black, X (@Will_Black60)
Play Strength: Elite (7)
There have been plenty of players over the years that have had the right measurables, but did not have the functional strength to match - Will Black is not one of those players. His exceptional lower body strength and leg drive is consistently on display, getting low and exploding at the point of attack. He wins his one-on-one blocking assignments routinely, controlling and steering defenders right out of running lanes with force.
Competitive Toughness: Elite (7)
Whether in the run game or the passing game, Black finishes every block with a little something extra. You can quickly pick up on the pride he shows when it comes to playing through the whistle. Every rep I watched ended with his blocking assignment on the ground, usually followed by Black laying on top of him to ensure no late play defensive pursuit could take place. You like to see some “bully” out of your trench players on both sides of the ball, and Black more times than not is the biggest one on the field.
Run Blocking: Very Good (6)
We've seen Black be deployed as a lead pull tackle, a front side zone blocker, and everything in between. Black is efficient in most areas of run blocking, but when he is used in a Power Scheme, he shines brightest. As mentioned above, his strength is off the charts, which allows him to get a consistent push on the man lined up in front of him. He does an excellent job of turning himself and sealing edge defenders, allowing ball carriers to come right off his backside.
Pass Blocking: Very Good (6)
I was very pleased to see where Black is as a pass blocker, considering he is just now entering his senior season, and run blocking is usually much further ahead at the high school level. Has very good punch timing, getting his hands into the chest of the defender right before he gets into his rush moves, essentially stopping him in his tracks. Moves feet well against edge players that try go wide around him, and once he is engaged, stays in control and does not allow many attempts at double moves. Also shows glimpses of his Football IQ in the way he recognizes defensive line stunts, and stays in good position to take on the looping defender. He will need to become more polished on his hand placement as he can get a little outside and grabby, which does not get called much now, but refs are a little more flag happy in college.
Anchor: Very Good (6)
Being able to stonewall rushers looking to convert speed to power and run through you on their way to the QB is a major part of what it takes to be a great tackle. It helps that Black towers over most of his current competition and can simply overpower them, but even from a technique standpoint, he does a good job of planting with a good base and holding his ground against bull/power rushes. Does not allow his pad level to get too high, and his lower body strength allows him to absorb the rush and protect the pocket.
Will Black is an outstanding prospect and well deserving of his high composite recruiting score. He already shows proficiency in both the run and pass game, and looks the part from a physical stature standpoint. When he arrives next season, he will join a very talented position group and very well may find himself as the next underclassmen contributing early on for the Blue and Gold.
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