• NFL Network
  • En Español
  • Mobile
Photo of Manase Tonga
Grade
?
  • 19 REPS
    Top Performer
  • 5'11" Height
  • 31 7/8" Arm Length
  • 245LBS. Weight
  • 9 3/8" Hands

Overview

Tonga is a good all-purpose collegiate fullback who provides running power on the goal line as well as in short-yardage situations and can be an adequate lead blocker. He will need a lot of work on his blocking techniques for the next level, as he tends to duck his head and lunge at blocks too often, which will cause him to whiff on too many blocks. He has nifty feet when making subtle cuts and can make people miss but has very limited lateral range when trying to bounce it to the outside. He does a lot of things pretty well but does not really stand out in any one area. There is enough talent to make you think he has a chance as a backup who can improve to a point but probably never reach the starter level.

Analysis

Strengths

Thickly built kid with a powerful lower half. Violent runner who pushes the pile and fights for the difficult yards up the middle. He is difficult to take down and will be an effective goal-line rusher. Very nimble for his size and shows the ability to make sharp cuts and transitions.

Weaknesses

Lacks the top-end speed to lead runners outside the tackle box and be a down field threat in the passing game. Puts his head down too often when blocking and has a tendency to lunge at opponents, losing power. Limited explosiveness and lateral range prevents him from consistently hitting holes and getting to the edge.
×
Grade Title Draft (Round) Description
96-100 Future Hall of Famer Top Pick A once-in-a-generation type prospect who could change how his position is played
85-95 Immediate Starter 1st An impact player with the ability/intangibles to become a Pro Bowl player. Expect to start immediately except in a unique situation (i.e. behind a veteran starter).
70-84 Eventual Starter 2nd-3rd A quality player who will contribute to the team early on and is expected to develop into a starter. A reliable player who brings value to the position.
50-69 Draftable Player 4th-7th A prospect with the ability to make team as a backup/role player. Needs to be a special teams contributor at applicable positions. Players in the high range of this category might have long-term potential.
20-49 Free Agent UDFA A player with solid measurables, intangibles, college achievements, or a developing skill that warrants an opportunity in an NFL camp. In the right situation, he could earn a place on a 53-man roster, but most likely will be a practice squad player or a camp body.
NFL News
CONTENT
15