NFL Draft Profile: Xavier Su’a-Filo
Dec 31, 2013; El Paso, TX, USA; UCLA Bruins guard Xavier Su’a-Filo
Go Joe Bruin continues its break down of UCLA football’s potential picks for the upcoming NFL Draft. Today we look at offensive guard, Xavier Su’a-Filo.
Vital Stats
Height: 6’4”, Weight: 307 lbs., Arm Length: 33 3/8”, Hands: 9 3/8”
His Time At UCLA
Su’a-Filo has been the most consistent offensive lineman UCLA has had in the last half decade. He played his first year in 2009 before going on a LDS mission for two years and then returned for the 2012 season.
He started every single game he played as a Bruin. In 2009 he played left tackle, 2012 left guard and this past season did a combination of both due to injuries on the offensive line. Along with Anthony Barr, Su’a-Filo was named team defensive and offensive MVPs, respectively.
Combine Statistics
Grade: 5.92
The 40: 5.04 sec
Bench: 25 reps
Vertical: 25.0 inches
Broad: 102.0 inches
3-Cone Drill: 7.60 sec
20-Yard Shuttle: 4.44 sec
Why Su’a-Filo Will Be An Asset
Su’a-Filo knows the left side of the offensive line very well. He seems to be slotted for a left guard position as a pro, but has the experience to take on the blind side. He solidified the line in a no-huddle, high-tempo offense that UCLA employed when Head Coach Jim Mora and Offensive Coordinator Noel Mazzone took over the Bruins two years ago.
Because of his two years on his LDS mission, Xavier Su’a-Filo left UCLA as a 23-year old junior. He was a leader on the team due to his experience and maturity, which is something NFL teams will definitely be looking at.
What Su’a-Filo Has To Improve On
One of the things that limits Xavier Su’a-Filo is his body size. He is small for an offensive lineman and it has been hinted that he does not have the ideal strength. If he is to make an impact, transforming his body into that of a professional lineman should be his first priority in the off-season.
Summary
Su’a-Filo is expected to be a late 1st round or early 2nd round pick. According to CBSSports.com, he is the #2 player at his position and #30 overall. Despite what team selects him, they will most likely utilize his services as a back-up which could help his professional development in the next few years.
Mike W.R.
Twitter: @TheBigDisco