Commitment Breakdown: What Auburn is getting Tulsa OL transfer Jaden Muskrat

Auburn has landed a commitment from Tulsa offensive lineman Jaden Muskrat.

As soon as he hit the portal nearly a month ago, Auburn’s staff wasted no time in offering him, then getting him on campus for a visit.

The reason? Muskrat can create some real competition at one of the guard spots or one of the tackle spots: something the Tigers are lacking at the moment.

Here is everything you need to know about Auburn’s new offensive lineman.

The Muskrat File

Muskrat is 6-foot-3 300 pounds and still holds a slender, athletic frame in regards to other offensive linemen.

Muskrat, as a pass blocker, only gave up three sacks while playing tackle at Tulsa. He still has issues at times out on an island, but that is usually against the bull rush.

When it comes to facing a speed rusher, Muskrat has very good feet and usually finds a way to win those reps.

As a run blocker, Muskrat shows good leg drive, but lacks some raw power at times. That’s not to say he doesn’t win his fair share of reps. He plays with good pad level, good leverage and technique.

Auburn fit

Muskrat can fit in several places. He more than likely will play one of the guard spots for Auburn, but absolutely can play a tackle spot if needed. He has plenty of experience playing tackle. Over 800 snaps as a tackle on the college level.

Muskrat fits as a potential starter at a guard spot to begin with. Auburn has a few guards with some experience, but can Muskrat’s experience win out over those players? If he has better feet, he will start. It’s possible he would have the best feet of any guard at Auburn right now.

Football IQ

Muskrat knows how to finesse his way into a good block. He is not devoid of power, and sometimes shows good power, but he likes to win with his feet. In fact, he trusts his feet.

If Muskrat can hold his own as a pass blocker at tackle, he can be dynamic as an interior offensive lineman too. Where he might give up some power on the interior, he will probably become an asset in perimeter runs and pass blocking.

One area for improvement

Muskrat has balance issues at times as a tackle in pass protection. The good news for him? He may not play tackle anymore. As a guard, though, Muskrat will need to keep his back flat and give a post foot as he will face more bull rushes on the interior. Some of this is due to a lack of overall power, but he has enough power and plenty of finesse to win at guard.

SEC readiness

Muskrat has the potential to be a starter at Auburn. Not only that, he could be the sixth man in a sense as he can play basically everything but center.

Muskrat needs to add some weight and power, believe it or not, during the summer to continue to progress as a potential SEC starter.

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