...So Your Team Drafted Will Fries

The Skinny

After redshirting in 2016, Will Fries began seeing the field at the beginning of the 2017 season, ultimately earning his first of 42 career starts just a few games into said 2017 season. Most of the next few seasons saw Fries starting at one of the tackle spots (typically right tackle) as he firmly entrenched himself as a key part of Penn State’s offensive line over the past few years, protecting Trace McSorley and Sean Clifford’s backsides, while opening up holes for Saquon Barkley, Miles Sanders, and others to run through.

The 2019 season saw Fries earn an All-Big Ten Honorable Mention after finally starting every game in one spot at right tackle. 2020 got off to a tough start (as it did for virtually everyone on the roster), as Fries was pulled from his starting role at one point before re-emerging as a starter at right guard, and seeing noted improvement, playing a pivotal role in helping PSU rebound from their worst start in program history to ending the season on a four-game winning streak.

What to Expect

Whichever team drafts Will is getting themselves a solid late-round pick. He brings versatility (playing 48 college games will do that to you) and the ability to really open up some running lanes for the ball carrier. His pass protection could use some refining, but that is something a quality offensive line coach could work on with him.