Dylan Parham
Summary
Dylan Parham was selected in Round 3 (#90 Overall) in the 2022 Draft out of University of Memphis. With the Tigers, he was a four‑year starter at multiple positions across the line (guard, tackle, center) and earned First‑Team All‑AAC honors in 2021. His versatility, athleticism, and football IQ were key college attributes. Character‑wise, Parham is known for his work ethic, adaptability (having moved from tight end to OL), and coachability.
Strengths
Athleticism & mobility: Parham displays excellent lower‑body mobility, footwork, and body control for an interior lineman, which helps in zone‑scheme pulls and reaching second level. Bleacher Report
Technique & leverage: Despite being somewhat undersized, he uses a low pad level, quick hands, and good hip bend to sustain blocks and maintain balance. PFSN
Versatility: He has experience at guard (both sides), tackle, and even center in college. This positional flexibility adds value. NFL Draft Buzz
Mental processing: Parham shows awareness in identifying blitzes, stunts, and second‑level defenders; his film shows good film study and recognition. PFSN
Run‑game capability in space: His agility allows him to pull, climb, and block in space fairly well—especially in zone‑type schemes. Bleacher Report
Weaknesses
Size / strength concerns: At roughly 6′3″ and ~311 lb coming out of college, Parham lacks the mass and upper‑body power of some dominant interior linemen, which may limit his ability against big, powerful defensive linemen. PFSN
Power‑drive blocking inconsistency: While good in space, he doesn’t always convert his athleticism into dominant push in one‑on‑one drive blocks, especially against bull‑rushers.
Length / arm‑span limitations: Some scouting notes highlight shorter arms ( ~33″) relative to premium guards, which can make reach blocks or countering certain moves more difficult. PFSN
Experience adjusting to NFL interior speed/power: Although versatile, the frequent positional shifts may mean he still has growing pains settling into a single long‑term role at guard or center. Bleacher Report
Fit & Outlook
Dylan Parham projects as a multi‑year starter at interior guard (or possibly swing guard/center) in a system that uses zone‑blocking or hybrid schemes that put a premium on mobility, athleticism, and technique. His skill‑set fits particularly well in offenses that ask guards to pull, reach block, and move laterally, rather than strictly drive‑block and anchor against big nose tackles. With his versatility and intelligence, he offers the Raiders flexibility in their offensive line plans—whether lining up at left guard, right guard, or even center if needed. Looking ahead, his outlook is strong. Given his rookie performance and growth trajectory, he appears likely to be a foundational piece of the Raiders’ interior line. With continued strength development, refinement of hand usage, and consistency in drive‑blocking, he has the potential to become one of the better guards in his class. The key will be solidifying one position (likely guard) and mastering elite‑level power play against NFL front‑seven athletes. If he does, his athletic base and versatility could make him a reliable, long‑term starter with above‑average upside.