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Darnell Wright

Darnell Wright Player Profile

Summary

Darnell Wright was drafted in 2023 NFL Draft, Round 1, (pick 10) out of Tennessee Volunteers. Wright is a big-bodied tackle with extensive college experience (over 2,700 snaps) and strong technical fundamentals. He brings power, size and anchoring ability, and is viewed by many as a “plug-and-play” right tackle prospect with the upside to move inside if required. NFL Draft Buzz

Strengths

  • Physical Build & Play Strength: Wright is described as “physically imposing” with starter-level strength, balance and ability to absorb and redirect force. Bleacher Report One scouting report: “Wright is extremely strong … it is difficult for defenders to get Wright to move once he has planted his anchor.” Sideline Sports

  • Pass-Protection Foundation: He showed excellent pass-blocking attributes in college—he did not allow a sack in his final 19 games at Tennessee. Chicago Bears That bodes well for the NFL tackle role.

  • Versatility on the Line: At Tennessee he had experience at right tackle, right guard, and left tackle. Chicago Bears That versatility increases his value.

  • Run-Blocking Aggressiveness & Anchor: He has shown willingness to move defenders, finish blocks, and drive them off the line. For a young tackle, that is a promising trait. Bleacher Report

  • Quick off the Snap & Good Movement for Size: As one analysis put it: “The former five-star recruit shows above-average agility on tape. He gets off the snap quickly and always looks to clear a path … Wright’s ability to block in space will boost his … stock.” NFL Mocks

Weaknesses

  • Mobility / Footwork & Zone-Scheme Fit: Some evaluators noted that his mobility and change-of-direction are “sufficient” but not elite; especially when required to pull, reach block, or cover space. For example: “When he’s asked to work as a puller or get out in space, things often look a little clunky … he isn’t going to be a glove-like fit for zone-blocking schemes.” SI

  • Leverage / Pad Level Issues vs Elite Edge Rushers: His size is a strength but also brings responsibilities: staying low, bending properly, keeping anchor against speed/power rushers. Some reports flagged he “only has sufficient mobility” and in space he can appear less controlled. SI

  • Ceiling Depends on Refinement: While his floor is strong, some scouting commentary suggested his ceiling may be more moderate if he doesn’t refine technique in space or adapt to more complex blocking schemes. Windy City Gridiron

  • Draft-Position Pressure / Expectations: As a top-10 pick, expectations are high. Some media questioned whether selecting him that high was a “reach” in context of scheme fit and team needs. Windy City Gridiron

Fit & Outlook

Short-Term: Wright is expected to be a starter from early in his career for the Bears. With his size, strength and pass-protect background, he should help improve the right tackle position and stabilize protection for the quarterback.

  • Mid-Term (2-4 years): If he refines his mobility, adjusts well to NFL edge rushers, and strengthens his technique (especially in space and on pull blocks or zone concepts), he has the potential to be an above-average starting tackle or even a long-term cornerstone.

  • Ceiling vs Floor:

    • Floor: A reliable starting right tackle, strong in pass protection, competent runner-side blocker.

    • Ceiling: A top-tier NFL tackle who can dominate in both run and pass, anchor an offensive line for a decade, and perhaps earn Pro Bowl or All-Pro recognition.

  • Key for his next step: Continued development of footwork and angle work, maintaining low pad level vs elite rushers, mastering tackles in space/pulling/zone concepts, staying healthy, and adapting to NFL game speed.

  • Team Fit & Impact: For the Bears, ensuring the scheme plays to his strengths—perhaps focusing on power/run emphasis and supporting him as he refines in pass sets—will be important. If used optimally, he could help improve the overall offensive line performance significantly.