Rob Havenstein
Summary
Rob Havenstein was selected in Round 2 (#57 Overall) in the 2015 Draft out of University of Wisconsin. Havenstein entered the NFL as a mammoth‑sized tackle prospect (6’7″, ~321‑333 lbs) with a proven track record of durability (54 games played with the Badgers) and strong run‑blocking credentials. While his combine athletic testing raised questions about agility and absolute explosiveness, his length, size, and positional experience made him an appealing pick for teams prioritizing run‑game strength and tackling defenders with raw power. Over his pro career he has become a dependable starter at tackle, offering reliable protection and run‑blocking consistency, albeit with known limitations in finesse and elite lateral speed.
Strengths
Prototypical size and length for tackle: At 6’7″ with long arms, Havenstein has the physical frame to engage and control edge defenders effectively.
Durability and experience: Tied a Wisconsin school record with 54 games played; had extensive starting experience which translated into pro readiness. Milwaukee Journal Sentinel Archive
Powerful run‑blocker and road‑grader mentality: Storng ability to maul defenders in the run game and create movement at the point of attack. Bleacher Report
Competent pass protection fundamentals for his size: While not elite athlete, he is considered to have functional footwork and was able to set a consistent base in many matchups.
Strong football IQ and consistency: Produced at a high level in college and in the pros indicating good technical foundation, discipline, and reliability.
Weaknesses
Mobility and agility limitations: His tall frame and longer levers sometimes hindered his ability to bend, mirror elite speed rushers quickly, or adjust in space fluidly. CBS Sports
Anchor and lower‑body strength on tall frame: Some evaluators noted that his height made staying low challenging, and he occasionally got stood up by powerful bull‑rushers.
Finesse and change‑of‑direction in space are average: In pulling, second‑level blocks, or slide‑protection schemes, his movement is less elite compared to more agile tackles.
Ceiling somewhat scheme‑dependent: He is best suited to schemes that leverage his size and power rather than ones demanding frequent movement/power‑mirror‑edge roles; mis‑deployment can expose his limitations. Bleacher Report
Testing metrics not standout for tackle class: At the Combine, his metrics (e.g., bench press, shuttle) ranked lower among offensive linemen, raising pre‑draft questions.
Fit & Outlook
Havenstein fits best in an offense that values a power‑run scheme, strong edge protection, and simplicity in the run game—ideally where the tackles are asked to set firm edges, anchor the line, and open holes. He projects well in systems where the offense will emphasize downhill rushing, games with high physicality, and pass protection that relies on size and base rather than pure speed‑rush mirroring. He is less ideally used in schemes that demand high‑motion pulling tackles, sliding laterally frequently, or being constantly asked to chase speed rushers from a wide split. Looking ahead, Havenstein’s outlook is solid. His floor is that of a dependable starting right tackle (or potentially left depending on team need) who reliably protects and contributes in the run game. His career longevity, size, and durability further bolster his baseline value. His upside lies in being a long‑term starter who can anchor an offensive line, particularly in a run‑heavy or balanced scheme where his strengths shine. The main risks remain his mobility limitations and potential exposure against ultra‑quick edge rushers, but with proper scheme alignment and continued development, his strong traits have lent him to being a solid foundational lineman for years for the Rams.