Chris Hairston Scouting Report

Chris Hairston was not a very highly regarded recruit coming out of high school, but with a 6-7 frame to fill in, it was quite apparent that he could develop into a fine collegiate blocker. However, Hairston has become more than just a good offensive tackle at the college level; he could work his way into the top three rounds of the NFL Draft. Even by the end of his freshman campaign Hairston was making an impact. He played a lot during the Chick-fil-A Bowl and was starting to emerge as a solid tackle. Hairston stepped into a starting role as a sophomore, but really came on strong during his junior campaign.

For his efforts in 2009, Hairston was named to the second-team All-ACC squad and, heading into 2010, he was ready to take over for the departed Thomas Austin as the leader of the offensive line. Yet, there were some questions about whether or not this unheralded lineman was ready to emerge as a leader of the unit. Hairston answered those questions during his senior season and helped pave the way for the dynamic rushing duo of Jamie Harper and Andre Ellington.

Hairston is a very smart player. He may not be the most physically dominating offensive lineman in this class, but he rarely makes mental mistakes. Hairston has the strength to be a solid right tackle in the NFL, but teams will have to take a close look at his footwork before they use a second or third round selection on him.