Video: HC Scott Linehan 256k | 512k | Audio: OG Tony Palmer

OVERVIEW

The stout left offensive guard has been a major reason that the Tigers have had so much offensive success the last three seasons. He is literally a pancake-making factory, averaging 8.39 knockdown blocks per game during his last two years. One of the most powerful blockers in the collegiate ranks, he wowed pro scout when he bench pressed 225 pounds 41 times recently.

After redshirting in 2001 at Missouri, Tony earned fourth-team Freshman All-American honors in 2002, ranking second on the team in blocking consistency while starting nine games. He added All-Big Twelve Conference honorable mention in 2003, helping the Tigers rank sixth in the nation with 3,089 yards rushing.

Palmer showed his pass blocking skills in 2004, as the team went back to an aerial attack. He was a second-team All-Big Twelve choice, compiling 91 knockdowns as the team averaged over 207 yards per game passing. He was a first-team All-Big Twelve pick while serving as team captain as a senior. Despite playing in an offense that featured constant scrambling by QB Brad Smith, Palmer did not allow a sack on 981 plays. He finished his career by starting his final 42 games.

ANALYSIS
Tough and physical blocker who is best served staying stationed at the line of scrimmage, where he excels at creating a new line for the running game… Has a powerful anchor and can easily hold the point vs. a strong bull rush…Classic fist fighter who relies on his initial punch to shock and jolt…Focused and competitive blocker who is capable of calling blocking assignments and could shift to center at the next level to take advantage of his hand punch and ability to anchor.

When Palmer gets his hands on the defender, he can separate with his long arms. He plays with good awareness and can see the twist, doing a very good job of picking it up.
As a run blocker, he shows good short area pop and explosion, He works to stay in front of the defender and is consistent to lock on and sustain.

Bio courtesy of NFLDraftScout.com