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Trevor Penning

Trevor Penning Player Profile

Summary

  • Drafted: Round 1, 19th overall in the 2022 NFL Draft by the New Orleans Saints

  • College: Northern Iowa

  • Key College & Combine Notes: Penning showed elite physical traits: recorded a 625 lb squat at UNI, has 34⅞″ arms, and tested very well athletically (e.g., 4.89‑second 40-yard dash) NFL Draft Buzz

  • Accolades / Character: Not a high‑profile award winner, but graded as a top tackle with “nasty streak” and serious competitive nature; known for his power, mean‑streak blocking style, and toughness.

Strengths

  • Prototype Size / Length — Massive frame, very long arms (34⅞”) ideal for left tackle. NFL Draft Buzz

  • Powerful, Physical Blocker — Plays with a nasty streak, drives defenders, and finishes blocks aggressively. NFL Draft Buzz

  • Athleticism for Size — Loose hips, surprisingly agile for his height.

  • Run‑Game Force — Excellent run blocker: ability to move defenders and sustain blocks in space. NFL Draft Buzz

  • Strong Anchor / Pass Protection — Good kick-slide, quick out of stance, and can mirror speed rushers. NFL Draft Buzz

  • Raw Strength & Work Ethic — Squat and power clean numbers are elite; brings effort and nastiness to every rep. NFL Draft Buzz

Weaknesses

  • Technique Still Developing — Needs to refine leverage, hand placement, and pad level in pass protection.

  • High Pad Play — Sometimes plays too upright, losing leverage when challenged. NFL Draft Buzz

  • Reaction to Counters — Can be late to adjust to sophisticated or inside rush moves.

  • Limited Top-Level Competition — Played FCS / lower-level opposition; projection to NFL tackling speed may be risky. NFL Draft Buzz

Fit & Outlook

Penning projects as a long-term starting offensive tackle, most naturally on the left side, protecting the blind side. His combination of size, power, and surprising athleticism makes him a strong fit for both power-running teams and those needing a mauler who can anchor in pass protection. With continued technical refinement and coaching, he has the upside to be a proven NFL starter for years. However, his ceiling may depend on how he adapts to more advanced pass rushers and improves his footwork and hand technique.