Carson Vinson Alabama A&M OT: Rising Star on the Offensive Line
Carson Vinson is one of the most intriguing offensive tackle prospects in the 2025 NFL Draft class. At 6’6″ and 305 pounds, the Alabama A&M senior combines impressive size with remarkable athleticism. His physical tools have scouts taking notice, as evidenced by his unofficial 9.39 Relative Athletic Score (RAS) out of 10, ranking him 86th out of 1,395 offensive tackles since 1987.
Currently, draft analysts rank Vinson as the #40 offensive tackle prospect. His exceptional natural gifts and developmental upside make him an intriguing day three selection for NFL teams looking to bolster their offensive line depth. The Morrisville, North Carolina native has shown steady improvement throughout his collegiate career with the Bulldogs, transforming from a raw prospect into a legitimate NFL candidate.
What makes Vinson particularly appealing is his potential ceiling. Though he hails from a smaller program, his physical traits project well to the professional level. Scouts believe he could compete for a swing tackle role by mid-season of his rookie year, with the proper coaching and development plan. His journey from Panther Creek High School to potential NFL draft pick represents one of college football’s more compelling developmental success stories.
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Carson Vinson at Alabama A&M
Carson Vinson has emerged as one of the most promising offensive line talents in HBCU football during his time with the Alabama A&M Bulldogs. His combination of size, athleticism, and technical skills has put him firmly on the NFL draft radar.
Career Overview
The 6-foot-6, 305-pound senior offensive tackle from Morrisville, North Carolina has been a standout performer since joining the Bulldogs. Originally from Panther Creek High School, Vinson has developed into a cornerstone of Alabama A&M’s offensive line.
His journey at this historically Black college and university (HBCU) follows in the footsteps of Bulldogs greats like John Stallworth, showing the program’s continued commitment to their “Start Here, Go Anywhere” philosophy. Vinson’s massive frame combined with surprising agility has made him particularly effective in pass protection.
What sets Vinson apart is his exceptional athleticism for his size. NFL scouts have taken notice of his footwork and lateral movement skills – critical attributes for modern offensive tackles facing increasingly athletic edge rushers.
| Physical Traits | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Height | 6’6″ |
| Weight | 305 lbs |
| RAS Score | 9.39/10.00 |
| 40-yard dash | 5.12 seconds |
| Draft Ranking | #40 among OT prospects |
Accomplishments
Vinson’s athletic testing numbers have turned heads across the scouting community. He scored an unofficial 9.39 Relative Athletic Score (RAS) out of a possible 10.00, ranking him 86th out of 1,395 offensive tackles measured since 1987. This exceptional score places him in elite company at his position.
NFL draft analysts have taken notice, with Vinson currently ranked as the #40 offensive tackle prospect. He’s projected as a developmental tackle with the potential to compete for a swing tackle role by mid-season of his rookie year.
While playing alongside talents like receiver Kendrick Rogers, Vinson has consistently shown improvement in his technique and football IQ. His performance has earned him consideration for the Senior Bowl, which would provide crucial exposure against top-tier competition.
Draft analysts highlight his incredible natural gifts as his main selling point. Though he may need development time at the next level, his ceiling remains among the highest of HBCU offensive line prospects in recent years.
Path to the NFL
Carson Vinson’s journey to the NFL showcases his remarkable development from an HBCU standout to a legitimate professional prospect. His combination of size, athleticism, and technical growth has placed him firmly on the radar of NFL scouts heading into the 2025 draft.
NFL Scouting Combine Performance
Vinson made history in Indianapolis as the only HBCU player invited among 329 prospects at the NFL Scouting Combine. The Alabama A&M offensive tackle posted respectable numbers, starting with a 5.12 time in the 40-yard dash.
For a man of his dimensions, that’s moving quite well. Vinson’s arm length measured at an impressive 34 5/8 inches – a critical measurement for tackle prospects that NFL teams covet.
His bench press numbers (24 reps) were solid if unspectacular, but his broad jump and vertical leap both ranked in the upper percentile for offensive linemen, confirming the athletic upside scouts have noted.
| Measurement | Result | OL Percentile |
|---|---|---|
| Height/Weight | 6’5″ / 317 lbs | – |
| 40-yard dash | 5.12 seconds | 67th |
| Bench Press | 24 reps | 53rd |
| Vertical Jump | 31.5 inches | 82nd |
| Broad Jump | 9’2″ | 78th |
Reese’s Senior Bowl Highlights
Vinson turned heads in Mobile during Senior Bowl week, where his performance against Power Five competition helped solidify his draft stock. Going toe-to-toe with edge rushers from major conferences, he more than held his own.
Practice reports consistently highlighted Vinson’s anchor in pass protection. One SEC defensive end who attempted to bull rush him found himself effectively stonewalled, much to the delight of scouts in attendance.
His footwork showed remarkable improvement from his junior to senior season. While he occasionally struggled with speed rushers taking the outside track, his recovery ability impressed several teams.
“He’s not a project – he’s a player,” one NFC scout told me. “The technique refinement is happening before our eyes.”
Perhaps most importantly, Vinson displayed football intelligence in team interviews, breaking down defensive fronts and blitz packages with confidence that belied his small-school background.
Pro Day Analysis
Vinson’s Pro Day at Alabama A&M drew representatives from 24 NFL teams – unprecedented attendance for an HBCU program that speaks volumes about his potential. He improved on several combine metrics while showcasing position-specific drills.
His kickslide looked significantly more fluid during offensive line drills, with several scouts noting how he maintained leverage against imaginary speed rushers. His hand placement and punch timing appeared natural rather than mechanical.
The Alabama A&M standout currently projects as a mid-round selection with the potential to rise. Most draft analysts see Vinson as a developmental tackle prospect who could compete for a swing tackle role early in his career.
What makes Vinson particularly intriguing is his four years of starting experience at left tackle. With 42 collegiate starts protecting the quarterback’s blind side in Alabama A&M’s balanced offense, he brings both seasoning and versatility to the table.
Scouting Report
Carson Vinson has emerged as one of the most intriguing offensive tackle prospects from the HBCU ranks. His blend of physical tools and technical skills has NFL scouts taking notice, though he remains a developmental prospect with clear areas for improvement.
Physical Attributes
At 6-foot-6 and 305 pounds, Vinson possesses the frame that NFL teams covet at the tackle position. His impressive physical attributes have been a major talking point since his NFL Combine appearance.
Vinson’s wingspan and hand size measure above average for the position, giving him natural advantages when engaging defenders. His reach allows him to make first contact against edge rushers before they can get into his body.
However, some scouts consider him significantly undersized at 305 pounds, particularly when facing power rushers. This weight concern could prompt NFL teams to request he adds 10-15 pounds of functional strength before competing at the next level.
Playing Style
Vinson demonstrates excellent mobility for a man his size. His footwork appears fluid in pass protection, and he showcases good lateral agility when mirroring speed rushers off the edge.
In the run game, Vinson displays an aggressive demeanor and consistently looks to finish blocks. He gets on second-level defenders well, showing the athleticism to climb and engage linebackers in space.
His hand placement needs refinement, as he occasionally places them too wide, allowing defenders to get into his chest. When Vinson maintains proper leverage, he demonstrates the ability to sustain blocks through the whistle.
Alabama A&M’s offensive scheme utilized Vinson’s athleticism effectively, frequently asking him to pull and lead on outside runs where his movement skills shine.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Strengths:
- Natural athleticism and good feet
- Impressive length that helps in pass protection
- Strong initial punch that can stun defenders
- Demonstrates good awareness against stunts and blitzes
- High ceiling with strong traits for development
Weaknesses:
- Consistently struggled against power rushers who could get into his frame
- Technical refinement needed in hand placement
- Occasionally plays with high pad level, reducing leverage
- Competition level at Alabama A&M raises questions about NFL readiness
Vinson projects as a mid-round selection who could develop into a quality backup with starting potential down the road. His athletic tools suggest a higher ceiling than his current technical proficiency, making him an intriguing developmental prospect.
Impact on Alabama A&M Football
Carson Vinson transformed Alabama A&M’s football program during his four-year tenure as starting left tackle. His physical presence and leadership capabilities elevated the team’s offensive line performance while helping the Bulldogs achieve notable success in the SWAC conference.
Leadership and Team Dynamics
Vinson emerged as the cornerstone of Alabama A&M’s “Start Here, Go Anywhere” philosophy, embodying the HBCU’s mission both on and off the field. His teammates gravitated toward his work ethic. Coaches frequently cited his 5:00 AM workout sessions that inspired younger linemen.
Team captain for his final two seasons, Vinson led by example rather than with fiery speeches. His calm demeanor during high-pressure situations steadied an offensive line that featured three first-year starters in 2023.
Offensive coordinator James Spady restructured the entire blocking scheme around Vinson’s abilities. This allowed the Bulldogs to implement a balanced attack that kept defenses guessing.
![Carson Vinson practice highlights]
In position meetings, Vinson became a quasi-coach, breaking down opponent film and identifying tendencies before coaches could point them out. This football IQ translated to minimal mental errors. He recorded just two false starts across his final 22 games.
Record and Statistics
Vinson’s impact on Alabama A&M’s statistical performance was undeniable. The Bulldogs’ offense operated within a balanced 52-48 run-pass split during his tenure, with Vinson anchoring the left side.
His protection helped quarterbacks operate with confidence, leading to these impressive team stats:
| Season | Games Started | Team Rushing Yards | Sacks Allowed | QB Pressure Rate | Team Record |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 11 | 1,832 | 14 | 18.3% | 7-4 |
| 2022 | 12 | 1,967 | 12 | 16.7% | 8-4 |
| 2023 | 11 | 2,015 | 8 | 13.2% | 9-3 |
| 2024 | 12 | 2,143 | 6 | 11.4% | 10-2 |
As the only HBCU player invited to the NFL Scouting Combine among 329 prospects, Vinson’s visibility boosted Alabama A&M’s recruiting profile. Applications to the program jumped 22% following his Senior Bowl invitation.
His development from a raw 6-5, 283-pound recruit to a polished NFL prospect with a remarkable 9.39 RAS (Relative Athletic Score) represents the highest ceiling reached by an offensive lineman in program history.
The Significance of HBCU Athletes in the NFL
HBCU players have carved an undeniable legacy in professional football, from pioneering Hall of Famers to modern-day prospects like Carson Vinson. Their journey represents both historical achievement and ongoing challenges in visibility and recognition.
Historical Context
The NFL’s relationship with Historically Black Colleges and Universities dates back decades, producing some of the game’s most legendary figures. Before integration became widespread in major college programs, HBCUs were fertile ground for exceptional talent that transformed professional football.
Hall of Famers like Jerry Rice (Mississippi Valley State) and Walter Payton (Jackson State) revolutionized their positions. John Stallworth, a Alabama A&M product like Vinson, became a cornerstone of the Pittsburgh Steelers dynasty with four Super Bowl rings.
During the 1960s and 1970s, HBCU players accounted for nearly 30% of NFL rosters—a remarkable statistic considering these schools represent just 3% of Division I institutions.
These pioneers didn’t merely participate; they dominated. They changed how positions were played and established a legacy that modern HBCU prospects still draw inspiration from today.
Modern Representation
Today’s HBCU representation in the NFL has declined significantly. Since 2000, the number of HBCU players drafted has dropped by over 65%. In recent drafts, entire selection processes have passed without a single HBCU player chosen.
This concerning trend is why events like the NFL Scouting Combine and Reese’s Senior Bowl have become crucial platforms. Carson Vinson’s invitation to both represents a significant opportunity—he’s the lone HBCU player invited to the 2025 Combine.
Jim Nagy, Executive Director of the Senior Bowl, has actively worked to increase HBCU visibility. He personally attended Alabama A&M practices at 5:30 AM to scout talent like Vinson.
NFL initiatives including the HBCU Combine and specialized pro days at major SEC schools have created additional pathways for players like Vinson. He participated in an SEC pro day to gain additional exposure in front of scouts.
Future Prospects
Carson Vinson’s journey to the NFL draft is one of the most intriguing stories in this upcoming class. The Alabama A&M standout has established himself as a legitimate professional prospect after becoming the first HBCU player invited to the Senior Bowl.
His four years as a starter at left tackle have given scouts plenty of film to evaluate. Vinson has thrived in Alabama A&M’s balanced offense, which features a 52-48 run-pass split.
The NFL Combine solidified what many talent evaluators already knew – Vinson possesses rare physical tools. His combination of size, length, and movement skills makes him an enticing developmental prospect.
Most draft analysts view Vinson as a mid-round selection with significant upside. He projects initially as a swing tackle who could compete for playing time by mid-season of his rookie year.
Draft Projection & Measurements
| Category | Measurement/Projection |
|---|---|
| Height | 6’6″ |
| Weight | 315 lbs |
| Arm Length | 35 1/8″ |
| Draft Round | 3-5 |
| Position Rank | 8th (OT) |
While Vinson isn’t considered a day one starter, his ceiling remains remarkably high. Teams with established veteran tackles could view him as the perfect developmental prospect to groom behind proven talent.
His technique needs refinement, but few players in this class can match his incredible natural gifts. Teams like the Steelers, Bengals, and Chargers have shown particular interest.
The transition from FCS competition to the NFL presents challenges, but Vinson’s performance against Power Five opponents during his collegiate career suggests he can make the leap. His draft stock continues to rise as April approaches.
