When you're 6'4, 307 pounds and can run the 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine in 4.98 seconds, people tend to notice. That's why it was no surprise when the Tampa Bay Buccaneers -- who traded back up with the Indianapolis Colts -- selected Hobart offensive lineman Ali Marpet with the No. 61 pick in the 2015 NFL Draft. Marpet is the second offensive lineman the Bucs have drafted to protect No. overall 1 pick Jameis Winston. They also took offensive tackle Donovan Smith with the 34th pick.
2015 NFL Draft results: Buccaneers pick Ali Marpet in 2nd round
Marpet is the first-ever player from Hobart to be selected in the NFL Draft.
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Marpet was a force for Division III Hobart, and his accolades stacked up throughout his career. After not giving up a sack in 2014, he was named to the Little AP All-American second team. He also earned first-team All-Liberty League honors and was the Liberty League Co-Offensive Player of the Year.
In addition to his outstanding quickness, Marpet has the ability to reach opponents with advanced blocking techniques above and beyond most Division III players. As the first DIII player ever chosen for the Senior Bowl, Marpet played well despite being moved from tackle to guard during the week of practice.
His showing at the Combine did well for his draft stock. Not only did he top all offensive linemen with his 40 time, but he also put up 30 reps on the bench press, ran a 7.33-second three-cone drill and turned in a 4.47 in the 20-yard shuttle.
Other than being slightly undersized for his height and position, the only real concern scouts had with Marpet was the fact that he played against inferior athletes throughout his collegiate career.
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