Revisiting notes by ESPN NFL Insider Field Yates, originally posted in 2012, on how teams scout for players at each position, focusing on left tackles:
DESIRED TRAITS: The first step in scouting a tackle is figuring out if he projects to be a left, right or swing tackle. Typically left tackles are valued more, because of their ability to protect the blindside, but a dependable right tackle is key as well.
In a left tackle, a player must have the quickness to get out of his stance, the reactive athleticism to mirror his opposing rusher, the strength through the core of his body to hold his ground against the rush and the smarts to decipher what is coming his way. A left tackle with length and quickness can work to spread his opponent wide and prevent him from collapsing the integrity of a pocket. In Nate Solder, the New England Patriots have a talented athlete with phenomenal size and his value to the team was evident in 2015 when he was lost to a season-ending biceps injury in mid-October.
On the right side, a tackle must possess many of the same traits as a left tackle, as well as be able to engage his opponent as a run blocker, get his hands inside and drive block. A right tackle is often the largest lineman of the five, and has to have a strong temperament and body control as a blocker. That means not ducking his head and lunging forward with full force, rather being able to size up a defender and engage him with a square base and frame.
SPECIAL TEAMS ANGLE: Offensive tackles are often contributors on the field-goal protection team, and can sometimes be seen as interior rushers on the field goal block team. Those who have the length and explosive first step to penetrate (Solder fits this mold) can wreak havoc blocking kicks. Occasionally, athletic tackles will be used as blockers on the kickoff return team.
PATRIOTS TAKE: In a bit of a surprise, the Patriots did not address the position this offseason. Solder's return to health will be critical, while starting right tackle Sebastian Vollmer and top backup Marcus Cannon enter the final year of their contracts, with LaAdrian Waddle the No. 4 option. Cannon worked solely at right tackle in spring practices, with Waddle on the left side. Cameron Fleming and Keavon Milton round out the depth chart. While third-round draft choice Joe Thuney played left tackle at NC State, he has solely worked inside at guard and center in spring practices. He is an option in an emergency.