JC Latham Scouting Report

By: Michael Higgins

(Image courtesy of Jordon Kelly/Icon Sportswire)

School: Alabama

Class: Junior

Position: OT

HT: 6’6

WT: 326 lbs

Sideline Prospect Ranking: #3

Background: JC Latham is a former consensus 5-star recruit widely regarded as the nation’s top offensive line prospect out of high school. Latham is originally from Oak Creek, Wisconsin, but due to his talent, he attended the prestigious sports academy, IMG Academy, for his high school football career. Latham received just about every high school award or nomination that one can receive and was eventually selected to participate in the Under Armour All-American Game. Latham was part of an IMG team that finished the 2020 season ranked first in the country. He played left tackle throughout his high school tenure and was a force protecting his quarterback’s blindside. As you might expect from the nation’s top offensive line prospect, Latham had no shortage of offers in terms of colleges. His decision came down to Alabama and Ohio State - Latham chose Alabama.

College: As a freshman, Latham was Alabama’s preferred swing tackle, he did not start due to obvious depth on the line but provided solid protection when his number was called. In 2022, Latham was a full-time starter at right tackle. 2023 saw Latham take over the right tackle position for the Crimson Tide. He was named a 2nd Team All-American from multiple outlets, while also being named 1st Team All-SEC.

Strengths: While Latham is a consistent blocker, he is also a mauler. He led the team for the entire season in knockdown blocks. JC Latham possesses some of the best size out of any offensive tackle in the country. He has length as well as overall mass to create a true mountain of a human being. Despite the size, Latham remains an incredible athlete. He is expected to have a 40 time in the 4.8 range. Latham creates a wide base and anchors his feet into the dirt, just about every edge rusher has issues getting through Latham. His wide base creates a strong foundation and gives him an instant advantage in the matchup. Latham has excellent footwork and is able to maneuver or keep up with even the quickest of opponents. Latham maintains good pad level and hand placement on each and every snap. He has heavy hands that strike the chest and shoulders of edge rushers who simply can’t compete with that. Latham excels at just about every facet of the game. Latham’s speed is best shown when he is run-blocking. As an offensive tackle, he is usually the front man clearing a lane for the ball carrier. He climbs to the second and third levels of the defense quicker than anyone. Latham executes both pancake blocks and reach blocks at an impressive clip. His blend of athleticism and physicality makes him a nightmare for linebackers and defensive backs.

Weaknesses: Throughout Latham’s entire career, he has been prone to being flagged more than others. After 2022, it was hoped he would iron out those issues but they did not go away. Latham truly does not have too many glaring weaknesses, he is going to go to an organization and instantly be their blindside protector. He will be an instant impact player as a run blocker. His pass protection will require a refinement of his skills.

Conclusion: Latham provides a skillset that is not often found in right tackles coming out of college. He is experiences in the position and will look to take over the starting job right away.

Scheme Fit: Zone Rushing Offense

Ideal Role: Right Tackle

Best Team Fits: CHI, MIA, WSH

Player Comparison: Penei Sewell

Player Grade: 93.7