:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/66962862/usa_today_11409730.0.jpg)
Happy Father’s Day!
Our countdown towards Iowa Hawkeyes football continues with a true freshman offensive lineman.
Tyler Elsbury - Freshman
Byron, IL (Byron)
6’5”, 295 lbs
2020 Projection: Reserve offensive lineman
Elsbury was a 4-star offensive lineman out of high school in 2019 with offers from Illinois, Northern Illinois, and Purdue, according to 247sports.
Looking at his HS tape, he plays with a clear mean streak and displays his athleticism by getting out on the perimeter as a lead blocker. As JP detailed in his commitment post, there’s some question as to whether he projects to guard or tackle. Time will tell, but he certainly has the attributes of past tackles.
While it’s unlikely he sees meaningful playing time this year, his body doesn’t require a transformation to be field-ready. He may get playing time in blowouts while still maintaining his redshirt.
If he’s able to do that, it projects nicely for his career especially as Alaric Jackson and Coy Cronk will depart after the conclusion of this season.