Summary

Christian Darrisaw was selected in the 1st Round (#23 Overall) in the 2021 Draft out of Virginia Tech. Darrisaw brings an excellent blend of size, athleticism, technique, and upside that make him a very strong left tackle prospect now turned pro. His biggest limitations revolve around consistency (particularly in finishing blocks and handling the very top rushers) and staying on the field. If he continues to refine his craft and remains available, he has the tools to be a foundational piece of his team’s offensive line for years to come.

Strengths

Christian Darrisaw comes with a strong set of traits that make him one of the more promising young offensive tackles in the league:

• Athleticism & foot‐movement: He displays very good footwork for his size — able to mirror speed rushers, slide laterally, and maintain balance in pass protection. Minnesota Vikings

• Leverage & bend: Scouts consistently note his ability to bend at the knees, maintain proper pad level, and stay square to rushers, which allows him to handle edge pressure well. Minnesota Vikings

• Run-blocking ability & second-level mobility: Darrisaw is not only a pass pro asset; he shows the agility to pull, climb to the second level, and block linebackers/safeties out in space. LAFB Network

• Strong frame and punch: His build and hand usage allow him to engage and sustain blocks. Film shows him able to move defenders and hold anchor in many situations. PFSN

• Upside and high ceiling: Given his combination of size + athleticism + technique, he projects as a long-term starter with potential to anchor the left tackle spot. SI

Weaknesses

Despite the promising traits, there are several areas where Darrisaw has been flagged for improvement:

• Motor / finishing blocks: Some scouts note that at times he appears to “coast” or not fully finish his assignments, particularly in run blocks or when sustain is required.

• Technique inconsistencies: Specifically, his hand placement can drift, allowing rushers to gain inside leverage; also sometimes over-extends or allows himself to get lured out of position. Big Blue View

• Handling elite speed‐to‐power or twist/block-exchange rushers: While he handles many edge rushers well, the most gifted ones with combination moves can give him trouble, particularly when his technique or urgency lags. AtoZ Sports

• Injury / availability: Although not a direct flaw of skill, his availability has been impacted by injuries (notably in the 2024 season he went on IR). Staying healthy will be key for his continued development.

Fit & Outlook

Darrisaw is best suited in a scheme that values athletic tackles who can protect the blind side and also work in space (e.g., zone‐oriented run games, offenses that pull or get linemen moving). His agility and mobility are major assets. If the Vikings maintain strong interior line play and provide consistent help (tight ends, chips, etc.), Darrisaw’s strengths should shine, and he can become one of the better left tackles in the league. The key for him: improve consistency in technique, finish blocks reliably, minimize breakdowns vs. top pass rushers, and stay healthy. If those come together, his ceiling is high. If not, his game could be more “very good starter” than “elite tackle.”