Anthony Belton Scouting Report

By: Michael Higgins

(Image courtesy of Joe Robbins/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)

School: NC State

Class: Senior

Position: OT

HT: 6’6

WT: 336 lbs

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Background: Anthony Belton is a JUCO product who was not recruited out of high school. Belton is originally from Tallahassee, Florida and attended Florida State University School (FSUS). He was completely unranked out of high school and took the JUCO route with Georgia Military Academy.

College: He was named a JUCO preseason All-American in 2020. He played offensive tackle for Georgia Military in 2019 and 2020 before transferring to NC State in 2021. Belton started 8 games at left tackle in his second season with the Wolfpack in 2022. Belton started every game in 2023. He was a Third Team All-ACC selection after registering 51 pancake blocks.

Strengths: Anthony Belton is an offensive tackle with a massive frame. He possesses functional length, which he uses to consistently prevent defenders from setting the edge on pass protection sets. Belton has a devastating initial punch that can completely knock defenders off their rush. His initial punch is followed by a flurry of punches and effective hand usage to keep the defender at bay. Not only does Belton win his matchups, but he takes pride in embarrassing his assignments. He consistently puts defenders into the dirt face first. His ability to finish his assignment at the line of scrimmage so quickly gives him ample time to climb to the second level and create a rushing lane for the ball carrier. In pass protection, he has a strong foundation that he uses to anchor himself and stall any rush. Belton has an elite ability to absorb power from bull rushes. He does not get beat by the traditional power rushers. Defenders need to combine strength with technique in order to beat him.

Weaknesses: Belton is heavy-footed and does not move exceptionally well. While he gets to the second level consistently due to his tenacity at the line of scrimmage, he does not get there with ease. His footwork is a work in progress, and he struggles to combat speed off the edge. He may not be able to play tackle at the next level due to a slow kick step. He has yet to develop anything to combat speed.

Conclusion: Anthony Belton is a powerful tackle with many traits that can make him a success at the NFL level. His size is intimidating but his footspeed is lackluster. His inability to move quickly projects him to be better on the interior than at tackle. He could be an extremely effective guard who can take on the powerful interior defensive linemen.

Scheme Fit: Zone Rushing Offense

Ideal Role: Left Guard

Best Team Fits: PHI, ATL, HOU

Player Comparison: Mekhi Becton

Player Grade: Round 4 (65.6)