Mobile, Alabama. In the end, Josh Conerly Jr. didn’t have many choices to make.
As Oregon’s left tackle this season, Conerly outperformed some of the Big Ten’s best edge rushers, notably Penn State All-American Abdul Carter, to the point where it was clear he should declare for the NFL draft.
Conerly’s return for his senior season was not even an option for offensive line coach Alique Terry and Ducks coach Dan Lanning.
Conerly remarked, “I felt like Coach Terry and Coach Lanning told me to leave.” Many people in my corner were telling me to leave, but I felt that I had gained confidence this year and was prepared to leave.
Conerly, an AP third team All-American, performed admirably this season against Carter, as well as Ohio State’s Jack Sawyer and JT Tuimoloau. With an overall pass-blocking grade of 83.3 from Pro Football Focus, he led Oregon, giving up nine pressures on 492 opportunities.
Conerly stated, “I think it wasn’t just those particular performances.” I believe that my decision was made possible by the entire season and the exponential progress I experienced during the year.
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At 6-foot-4 1/8 and 313 pounds, Conerly demonstrated how he makes the most of his 81-inch wingspan during Tuesday’s Senior Bowl practice. He performed admirably against Jah Joyner of Minnesota and Josaiah Stewart of Michigan.
Conerly stated, “I thought it was a good day, but obviously there’s always more to improve on.” After seeing the footage and analyzing my shortcomings, I go out and perform the following day.
Conerly, one of the underclassmen at this year’s Senior Bowl, wants to prove he is the greatest tackle in the draft after his draft value increased dramatically during the season.
–The Oregon Ducks and Big Ten are covered by James Crepea. Get the Ducks Roundup email or listen to the Ducks Confidential podcast.
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