By: Michael Higgins

School: Iowa

Class: Senior

Position: IOL

HT: 6’6

WT: 311 lbs

Sideline Prospect Ranking: #28

Background: Connor Colby is a former top-200 player in the class of 2021. He was ranked as the 2nd best player in the state of Iowa. Originally from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Colby attended John F Kennedy High School, where he earned a 4-star rating. Just as his teammate, Cooper DeJean was, Colby was also named to the Iowa All-State Team as a senior. In his final season at John F Kennedy, Colby was a captain and led his team to the playoffs three straight seasons. Colby received plenty of national attention from Big 10 and Big 12 schools. He committed to Iowa over Michigan State, Ohio State, and others.

College: Colby was an instant impact player as a freshman at Iowa. He earned All-Freshman honors as he appeared in most games at right guard. In 2022, not only was he one of the best interior offensive linemen in the country, but he was named All-Academic Big 10.

Strengths: Connor Colby is a gritty interior offensive lineman. He provides a stable presence in pass protection to keep the quarterback’s lap clean. He has good footwork in pass protection, and he maintains a wide base and a good pad level. He seemingly cements his feet to the ground with each step and rushers have an extremely difficult time in trying to move him off that foundation. This strong base allows him to take on the more powerful players and absorb the rush without getting beat. Colby uses active hands to keep the defender from penetrating the line. In the run game, he is a mauler. He is eager to move through each level of the defense and create a lane for the ball carrier. Colby accelerates quickly and moves well for his size, allowing him to stay in front of the play. His arm length will measure in at the top of his position group, this length shows in his ability to run block and protect the pass. Colby is a guard in a tackle’s body, but he can move better than the average interior lineman.

Weaknesses: Colby’s weaknesses are ones I believe can be worked out of his game at the next level. When run blocking, Colby is often too eager to move through the defense and occasionally does not finish his original blocking assignment before moving on to the next. He also tends to lunge at defenders, resulting in a loss of leverage. With a lunge, he loses balance and takes himself out of the play. Colby also struggles with players who possess solid upper body mechanics. Players who maintain solid pad level and don’t let Colby get a grip on their shoulder pads often beat him.

Conclusion: Connor Colby has some minor weaknesses in his game but his tape is impressive. He will be an instant difference maker for any team that selects him.

Scheme Fit: Gap Rushing Offense

Ideal Role: Right Guard

Best Team Fits: NYJ, PIT, WSH

Player Comparison: Alijah Vera-Tucker

Player Grade: 86.9