Summary

Mike McGlinchey was selected in Round 1 (#9 Overall) of the 2018 NFL Draft out of the University of Notre Dame. A two-year starter at right tackle for the Fighting Irish, McGlinchey anchored one of college football’s premier offensive lines and helped power a dominant run game. He earned Second-Team All-American honors (2017) and First-Team All-ACC recognition, entering the NFL as a high-floor, scheme-ready tackle with elite size and movement skills. In the NFL, McGlinchey has been a long-term starter with the 49ers and later the Denver Broncos, appearing in 90+ career games through the 2024 season. He has been a key contributor to multiple playoff runs and two Super Bowl appearances with San Francisco. McGlinchey is widely regarded as a high-character, intelligent, and team-oriented professional, praised for leadership, durability, preparation habits, and locker-room presence. Coaches consistently highlight his accountability, toughness, and commitment to team culture.

Strengths

• Ground & Pound: Powerful at the point of attack and excels in gap and outside-zone concepts. Exhibits a heavy punch in the run game.

• Titanium Frame: Prototypical right tackle frame, McGlinchey is difficult to run through. Sturdy frame has afforded him to handle high snap volumes over full seasons.

• Elevator - Second Floor Please: Excellent second-level mobility for a large tackle. Ideal for run-heavy, play-action offenses.

• Geometry Guru: Effective sealing edges with good angles and reaching linebackers. Strong understanding of protections and defensive fronts.

Weaknesses

• Pass Protection vs. Speed: Can be stressed by elite speed rushers. Focuses more on guiding rushers along their arc rather than finishing them.

• Counterpoint: Vulnerable at times to counter power once beaten. Limited margin for error against quick inside counters.

• Pad Level: Tall frame can lead to leverage issues.

• Penalty Risk: Can draw holds when beaten laterally.

Outlook

McGlinchey is a strong fit for Denver’s physical, run-forward offensive identity, particularly in systems that emphasize wide-zone, gap schemes, and play-action. He profiles best as a starting right tackle whose presence allows the offense to establish a downhill run game and protect the quarterback with defined launch points. When paired with interior help against elite edge speed, McGlinchey can be consistently effective and stabilizing. Looking ahead, McGlinchey projects as a reliable veteran starter with a high floor, especially in run-centric game plans. While pass-protection limitations cap elite upside, his durability, leadership, and run-game impact provide significant structural value. For Denver, McGlinchey remains an important piece of offensive line continuity, offering toughness, professionalism, and playoff-tested experience to a developing offense.