FantasyPros will be taking a look at early NFL Draft scouting reports before the Combine in March. Here’s a look at North Carolina State offensive tackle Anthony Belton. And check out our entire 2025 NFL Draft Guide.
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2025 NFL Draft Scouting Report: Anthony Belton
Anthony Belton (OT – North Carolina State)
6-foot-6 | 336 Pounds
Background
Originally attended Georgia Military junior college, spending two seasons there (including one canceled due to the pandemic), Anthony Belton then transferred to the Wolfpack and played 11 snaps over two games in 2021.
Ended up starting eight games to begin the year for the Wolfpack in 2022, but lost his starting job and rotated in after that, totaling 152 snaps over his last five appearances (624 on the year), with three sacks allowed. Won back the starting left tackle role for the 2023 season, allowing two sacks that year (20 hurries) and another three sacks in 2024.
Positives
Very thickly-built left tackle who will meet any team’s size requirements and has three years of starting experience with a favorable trajectory. Can be a handful in the run game; brings a tough temperament. His strength and work rate overwhelm defenders at times, with a killer instinct. Keeps his feet going after contact. Grind down opponents as the play goes. Overall grip strength is good. Works hard to stay engaged. Generates a lot of torque with his upper body.
Belton has some experience pulling in the run game or playing in space in the screen game. Not the most laterally quick, but can mirror pretty well on the edge against standard seven-technique alignments because of his thickness and controlled kick slide. Doesn’t over-set in pass protection, allowing him to successfully handle inside moves. Absorbs opposing bull rushers quickly, with a strong lower body. Can recover and finish when steering opponents wide of the pocket.
Negatives
Admitted to needing to improve his off-the-field habits in the past after losing his starting job toward the end of the 2022 season. Lack of ideal range and athleticism will probably necessitate a position change to right tackle or guard. Doesn’t fire out with the lowest pad level. Lapses into being a leaner at times. Has some sloppy snaps where he ends up on the ground.
When pass protecting, Belton’s form is compromised the further he needs to travel. Anchor can occasionally be undermined by a relatively narrow base in pass protection. More of a catch-and-ride blocker who could be more aggressive with his punch. Hand placement can be outside and may lead to penalties at the next level (averaging about eight over the past three years.)
Summary
A tough tackle with rare size, Belton can move opponents in the run game and protects the edge surprisingly well given his size. There are some inconsistencies to his technique, mostly in terms of balance and maintaining his form in pass protection, but also many snaps where he shows a good feel for the game.
Looks like an interesting developmental option for a gap-based offensive scheme. Could get some looks toward the end of Day 2 or the beginning of Day 3.
Projection: Round 3/Round 4
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