FantasyPros will be taking a look at early NFL Draft scouting reports before the Combine in February. Here’s a look at Northwestern offensive tackle Caleb Tiernan.
2026 NFL Draft Scouting Report: Caleb Tiernan
Caleb Tiernan (OT – Northwestern)
6-foot-7 | 325 Pounds
Background
Caleb Tiernan was a four-star recruit who redshirted in 2021 before starting six games and playing virtually all of a seventh game at right tackle in 2022. During that 2022 season, he allowed two sacks and 1 total sacks + hits + pressures (2-11), per Pro Football Focus (PFF). Flipped to left tackle in 2023 and has been there ever since, with 1-26 in 2023, 3-13 in 2024 and 3-15 in 2025.
Positives
Tall, thickly-built offensive tackle with over 40 games of starting experience, primarily at left tackle but with some right tackle starts as well. Carries his weight well and looks the part. Smooth mover with solid overall coordination, especially for such a big man; doesn’t put together a ton of snaps where he’s waist-bending or otherwise off-balance.
Tiernan has a strong grip and can effectively generate torque with his upper body to twist defenders away from the play direction. Understands positioning and is content to let defenders run themselves away from the play before walling off. Able to climb up to the second level and disrupt a linebacker’s angles in pursuit. Works pretty hard through the whistle to stick with his assignment.
The Northwestern prospect looks relaxed and confident working in pass protection, with big strides to get depth and the length to protect the edge and keep defenders out of his frame. Despite being a taller tackle, consistently keeps his back straight. Shows accurate hand placement and is a skilled hand-fighter with the ability to reset. Drops an early anchor against power, showing good lower-body strength. Recovers well against explosive first steps to force rushers past the pocket.
Negatives
Arm length is rumored to be under the 33-inch minimum for some teams. Would like to see Tiernan take more snaps out of a three-point stance. Not the nastiest or most physical blocker in the class; definitely has more of a workmanlike or maybe even finesse approach to the position.
Tiernan will finish when an opportunity presents itself, but he isn’t the type of player who’s going to consistently jolt and punish defenders. Much smoother than he is explosive. Base sometimes gets a little bit light/center of gravity gets a bit high when he’s working against EDGE rushers with wide alignments. That could cause some trouble against opponents who cut back inside or can effectively convert speed to power; it doesn’t seem to have a very snappy pivot back inside.
Summary
A tall, well-built, calm, polished and technically-sound left tackle with smooth movement skills, Tiernan’s experience shines through on tape and should establish him as one of the safer tackle prospects in this year’s class.
While he doesn’t have the most explosive, physical or nasty style of play, the relative peace of mind Tiernan offers at a premium position should earn him Day 2 consideration. Comes from a zone-heavy offense and would probably be best there at the next level as well.
Projection: Round 2/Round 3
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