The first signature win of the Charlie Strong era yielded instant results when Navarro JC offensive lineman Tristan Nickelson committed to play for the Longhorns on Saturday evening. The mammoth prospect held offers from Iowa State, North Texas, and Louisiana Monroe.
Nickelson, who was in for a visit to see Texas play West Virginia, committed to the Horns after the game. The JUCO offensive tackle represents the Horns 18th commitment of the recruiting cycle.
Texas fans have seen the way depleted offensive line depth has handicapped the Texas offense throughout the season. As a junior college transfer, Nickelson has the ability to come in right away and provide depth to thin unit. Nickelson played his high school ball in League City before attending Navarro, and fits the mold Coach Joe Wickline has pursued throughout his time at Texas.
Film Analysis:
There isn’t a lot of film out there on Nickelson but you can see that his frame is ideal for an offensive lineman. Nickelson stands 6’9, 300 lbs. with room to add as much as 30-40 pounds on in the future.
On film Nickelson shows nice quickness out of his stance with good coordinated footwork and flexibility. He appears a candidate to play on the right side and might struggle some with speed rushers. Nickelson has long arms which allow him to lock onto his opponent and keep him at bay. The League City product also shows a nice kick slide with proper depth and the ability to deliver a good punch to a rushing lineman.
Nickelson plays strong at the point of attack in the run game but struggles a bit with his balance and engaging a defender in the open field when working second level. Nickelson will need to refine technique and learn how to use his size better while adding more weight to his impressive frame.
Final Verdict:
The offer list won’t blow anyone away but I think anytime you have a chance to grab experienced bodies with that type of size, it’s a virtual no brainer. Nickelson may not be a star in the junior college ranks, but the bottom line is he has a lot to work with and can provide a solid backup option next season.
Nickelson’s ceiling could be that of an all conference player but it’s probably more likely he’s a solid contributor who starts a year or two for Texas.
