Summary

• Draft: 3rd round, 71st overall, 2024 NFL Draft University of Illinois Athletics

• College: University of Illinois The Daily Illini

• Key College Stats / Accolades: Started 25 straight games for Illinois over two seasons. University of Illinois Athletics He was a two-time All‑Big Ten honorable mention. The Daily Illini In 2022, his Illinois offensive line was a semifinalist for the Joe Moore Award. University of Illinois Athletics

• Physical / Measurables: Listed at 6′4″, ~315 lb per NFL.com. NFL.com

• Character & Background: He’s Canadian (from Ajax, Ontario), walked a path from Wilfrid Laurier University → Garden City CC → Illinois. 3DownNation Known for his leadership: Adams was a team captain at Illinois in 2023. The Daily Illini

• General Evaluation: A versatile, tough lineman with experience at multiple positions, good athleticism, and a high ceiling in the NFL.

Strengths

• Versatility: Adams played both guard and tackle in college — started at left guard, right tackle, and even some left guard. University of Illinois Athletics

• Athleticism: Despite his size, he moves well. He can mirror pass rushers and is agile in space. SI

• Run-Blocking Ability: Strong in drive and combo blocks. According to NFLDraftBuzz, he’s very good climbing to the second level. NFL Draft Buzz

• Pulling / Movement: He’s capable of pulling and leading on mobility-based blocking concepts. SI

• Strength & Power: Has a wide, powerful base and shows the physicality to steer defenders in the run game. NFL Draft Buzz

• Consistency / Durability: Started 25 straight games at Illinois, showing reliability. The Daily Illini

• Leadership & Mental Makeup: As a team captain in college, he brings maturity, work ethic, and a “no flinch” mentality. The Daily Illini

Weaknesses

• Leverage Issues: Sometimes plays too upright, which may make it hard to sustain blocks against powerful defensive linemen. NFL Draft Buzz

• Footwork / Balance on Pass Sets: While mobile, his footwork and balance in sustained pass sets could use refinement. SI

• Pass-Protection Consistency: According to scouting reports, he can struggle with quick counter rushers and may not always maintain his anchor. SI

• Size Ceiling: At 6′4″ and ~315 lb, he’s not the largest interior lineman, which could be exploited by heavier or stronger defenders. SI

• Development Needed: Despite his promise, some scouts believe he needs time to refine his technique — especially his hands, positioning, and length usage. SI

Fit & Outlook

• Fit:
  Isaiah Adams projects well in offenses that value zone‑blocking schemes or flexible offensive line sets. His versatility makes him attractive as a swing guy who can play both guard and tackle, allowing a team to mix up its personnel. He’s also a good fit for teams that ask their linemen to pull or lead in run schemes, given his mobility and size.

• Outlook:
  Adams has a very promising future. As a third-round pick, he isn’t just depth — he has the traits to become a starter. His combination of strength, technique, and adaptability gives him a high upside as an interior lineman in the NFL. With real coaching and experience, he could settle into a starting guard role, or continue as a key utility lineman who brings value in both run and pass. His leadership and consistent performance in college suggest a high floor, while his athletic traits give him a meaningful ceiling.