Velocity Trained Athletes
Tony Palmer
Sport(s): NFLPosition(s): G
Biography
| Pro Summary |
- A powerful, young lineman who enters 2007 looking to capitalize on a reshaped physique and compete for a top backup spot on the interior of the offensive line
- At 325 pounds when claimed on waivers from St. Louis, was not considered the ideal body type for the zone-blocking scheme, but spent the year reshaping his body, dropping around 15 pounds, making him a better fit for the system
- Packers scouting staff noticed him coming out of Missouri, then followed him after being drafted in the seventh round by the Rams
- Impressed with his limited preseason work, the Packers claimed him off waivers when the Rams, who wanted to keep him on their practice squad, released him in the final roster reduction
- Worked as a backup guard and special teams lineman his rookie season, is also being taught to play center, having shown the ability in college to call blocking assignments
- Considered one of the more powerful blockers in the 2006 draft class, played primarily left guard and averaged 8.39 knockdown blocks per game over his final two seasons at Missouri and once bench-pressed 225 pounds 41 times
- Seen as a strong anchor against the pass rush, not allowing a sack as a senior, with good explosion in the run game, able to separate from defenders with his long arms
- Earned several All-Big 12 honors and started 41 of his final 42 games