With a wide frame that can be challenging to navigate for run defenders, Mafi plays with good core strength, a broad base and well-placed hands to improve his power zone. Move blocking in the ground game and reactive adjustments in pass protection will create difficulties for him due to a lack of foot quickness. He plays with a chippy temperament that coaches will like. Mafi is scheme-dependent, but he has the potential to be a good backup or low-end starter.
Move-blocking guard whose athleticism doesn’t guarantee consistent body control or balance in his play. Gaines is highly intelligent with a clear understanding of his duties on every snap. His hand placement can be a little sloppy, which diminishes his block sustain in the run game. While Gaines moves well as a run blocker, he struggles to stay under control and in front of opponents while mirroring. Gaines has the mental makeup coaches will like, but he needs to upgrade his protection technique and improve his core strength. He has backup guard/center potential.
