Packers: What do the Scouting Reports Say About Jon Runyan?

In Round 6 the Green Bay Packers added some depth to the offensive line with the selection of Jon Runyan. Here are what a few scouting reports have to say about his game.

The Green Bay Packers had a draft that left many fans confused and upset by the time it was over. However, one pick that I think many fans would agree is their favorite, was the selection of offensive lineman Jon Runyan in the sixth round.

While finding a long-term solution at right tackle was a well-known need for the Packers, so was addressing the rest of the offensive line. As we look ahead to the 2021 offseason, there are some question marks along the interior.

Of course, we hope that Corey Linsley is back on a new deal, but with other notable 2021 free agents including David Bakhtiari, Kenny Clark, and Aaron Jones there is no guarantee that he will be. On top of that, although Billy Turner was an upgrade over Byron Bell, his play was below average in 2019. And if Green Bay wants to get out of his contract next offseason, they can.

Enter Runyan – son of former Philadelphia Eagles Pro-Bowl tackle Jon Runyan Sr. – who appeared in nine games during the 2017 season for Michigan and filled in at various spots along the offensive line that year. It was then in 2018 when he would find his home at left tackle where he started 25 games there over the next two seasons and was a two-time All-Big Ten Honoree.

According to Pro Football Focus (subscription required), over those 25 games, Runyan would total 814 pass-blocking attempts and he allowed just three sacks and three quarterback hits during that span. If you really want to be impressed, go turn on the tape of him against Chase Young and Ohio State. Often times on an island, Runyan was simply fantastic.

However at the NFL level, due to his arm length and a few other factors, many expect Runyan to kick inside where his athleticism will let him shine in pass protection at the guard position and also make him a good fit for Matt LaFleur’s outside-zone running scheme. Although it’s worth pointing out that GM Brian Gutekunst hasn’t completely ruled out the idea of Runyan taking some snaps at tackle either.

To dig a little deeper into Runyan’s game and what he can bring to this Green Bay Packers’ offense, here is what a few draft analysts had to say in their scouting reports:

Joe Marino – The Draft Network

"“Michigan offensive tackle Jon Runyan is not what you expect him to be on tape, especially if you have his father on your mind who was a former Pro Bowler in the NFL. While the football IQ is obvious, his lack of technique and functional strength are major concerns. His hands are among the most erratic in the class, his body control is poor and he lacks power. Runyan will likely need to play guard in the NFL but his limitations are notable.”"

Lance Zierlein  – NFL.com

"“Determined and smart, Runyan held his own as a Big Ten tackle despite a lack of desired physical and athletic traits. He’s inconsistent taking control into initial engagements, but stays after it and recovers back into the second phase of the block.He plays with high hands that diminish power and control, but that should improve as he slides inside to guard. He has adequate athleticism and body control to fit into a variety of run schemes but may not excel in any. Runyan’s protection experience at tackle improves his draft value as a later-round, backup-caliber guard.”"

Tony Pauline – Pro Football Network

"“Runyan had a solid career for Michigan, but he comes with limited athleticism and upside. He played incredibly well at guard during Shrine Bowl practices, which seems like a more natural position for him at the next level. At the very least, he could be an invaluable backup on Sundays.”"

At least early on in his career, Runyan gives the Green Bay Packers more depth along the offensive line, which is something that you can never have too much of. But with a move inside to guard and continued development, he could begin to earn some more meaningful snaps in the future.