Bengals Sign Auburn Guard John Sullen
By Jason Marcum
Oct 29, 2011; Auburn, AL, USA; Auburn Tigers quarterback Kiehl Frazier (10) runs behind lineman John Sullen (71) and Chad Slade (62) against the Mississippi Rebels during the second half at Jordan Hare Stadium. The Tigers beat the Rebels 41-23. Mandatory Credit: John Reed-USA TODAY Sports
Pro Day Results and Measurables
Height: 6’6”
Weight: 332 lbs
Arm Length: 33.37″
Hand Size: 10″
40-yard dash: 5.78
Broad jump: 7’9”
Vertical Jump: 26.5″
3-Cone Drill: 8.25
20-yard dash: 3.33
10-yard dash: 2.00
The Bengals continued to add to their offensive line depth as they’ve signed Auburn guard John Sullen. In 2012, Sullen started in 11 of 13 games, each being at right guard. Get to know him in this segment of Auburn’s “In the Trenches” series:
"STRENGTHS: Massive man with good overall weight distribution. Surprisingly quick initial burst off the snap. Is often asked to pull in this offense and shows the agility to get out and lead the action. Excellent upper-body strength. Capable of rag-dolling opponents when he latches on and shows at least adequate balance and core strength to hang on as defenders attempt to wrestle away. Comes off the ball low and hard and can knock defenders back in short-yardage situations. Keeps his head on a swivel and looks to help teammates in pass protection. Has seen significant action at both guard positions and has the size to even consider moving outside for power-based teams.WEAKNESSES: While more athletic than his frame might suggest, Sullen struggles with quicker defenders. Too often lunges at smaller opponents, leaving easy “cut back” lanes for defenders to slip past him. Has a tendency to drop his head on contact, giving defenders with adequate arm-over moves an opportunity to swim past him. Struggles changing direction in space, so his quickness in pulling initially isn’t as effective as it might initially appear.COMPARES TO: Chilo Rachal, OG, Chicago Bears — For power-based offenses, Sullen could prove quite intriguing as he has been a standout against high level competition. His ability to drive defenders off the ball in the running game, however, may not be enough to overcome his struggles with quicker pass-rushers, especially considering the development of today’s quick three-technique defensive tackles and highly aggressive interior blitzes."
"STRENGTHS Tall, long, powerful guard prospect with a thick overall build. Plays with a wide base. Often comes low and hard out of his stance to gain leverage despite his height. Better feet than his build would indicate, effective as a zone-blocker and can execute a reach-block surprisingly well to get the angle. Mirrors while engaged in pass pro, brings a punch, and anchors strong against bulls. Controls his man with his upper body on zone or power run plays. Has intensity to drive defenders to the ground when gaining the advantage.WEAKNESSES Height is a disadvantage in the leverage game if he’s unable to maintain bend. Sticks to linebackers on combos, but simply lacks agility to adjust to quick defenders in space. Mirroring one-on-one against quicker NFL tackles might be an issue, must prove lateral agility and recovery speed if missing his punch.NFL COMPARISON John Jerry"
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