Nov 11, 2021; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; North Carolina Tar Heels running back Ty Chandler (19) runs behind the blocking of offensive lineman Asim Richards (72) against the Pittsburgh Panthers during the first quarter at Heinz Field. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports
Cowboys bolster offensive line with UNC’s Asim Richards in fifth round
The Cowboys finally addressed the offensive line with the 169th pick in the fifth round by selecting North Carolina’s Asim Richards. Richards has played over 2,500 snaps at UNC.
Standing at 6-4, 309 pounds, Richards has great reach for his size and plays with force. He plays with a fire lit under him and can dominate at times. He spent most of his time with the Tar Heels playing tackle, but scouts believe he has the positional versatility to move inside to guard if need be. He specializes in run blocking at the moment, however, his pass blocking is aided by his arm usage.
Richards doesn’t have superior athleticism or polished footwork, but given his motor and his length, he has upside to provide value as a swing tackle or an interior force in the NFL.
