Monroe Freeling — 2026 NFL Mock Draft Roundup 1.0

Freeling's a long-limbed tackle prospect with excellent athletic ability, but his game needs more seasoning.

Freeling's upside could be intriguing for teams looking for a starting right tackle in his class. With only 13 college starts, there isn't a huge résumé to evaluate, but Freeling has ideal length and movement skills at 6-foot-7 and 315 pounds to get scouts excited about his ceiling. When watching Freeling get to the second level in the run game, it's easy to join in that excitement. The Rams currently have Warren McClendon Jr., a fifth-round pick in 2023, at right tackle. If they're not quite sold on him, they could bet on Freeling's athletic upside and potential, buying them time to see if McClendon is the future before his contract runs out after next season.

Freeling pairs elite length with high-end athleticism. He's incredibly smooth when mirroring pass rushers or climbing to the second level, and while he's still filling out his frame to handle pure power, his ability to lock onto defenders and sustain blocks in the run game already ranks among the best in this class.

A great athlete at 6-7, 315, Freeling could physically handle either tackle or either guard position. A balanced, powerful and bendy tackle with limited experience, Freeling should have his best days ahead of him.

At 37 years old, left tackle Trent Williams is nearing the end of a Hall of Fame career -- which makes finding an eventual successor a top priority. Freeling is far from a polished product, but his physical tools and upside make him an intriguing developmental prospect.

The Texans did a nice job of maneuvering to land Aireontae Ersery in last year's draft. Now they get another young tackle to pair with him. Freeling is just scratching the surface of his potential.