Missouri offensive tackle Javon Foster possesses high-end developmental traits. Moldable attributes make Foster among the most intriguing tackle prospects in the 2024 NFL Draft. The 6-foot-5, 309-pound Foster has outstanding length with 34-25.inch arms.
Foster recently spoke exclusively with The Draft Network about competing at this year's Senior Bowl, how he'd write his own scouting report, pass protection and run blocking, his special bond with fellow draft hopeful Darius Robinson, and more.
JM: You were invited and attended this year’s Senior Bowl. What was the overall experience like?
Javon Foster: It was honestly a blessing. I had a lot of fun. You watch these events on television growing up and now it’s my time to go through the process (laughs). It’s crazy. Time flies. I’ve put a lot of work into this. Living in this moment has been surreal for me.
The Senior Bowl was a huge blessing in my life. I love to compete. Going up against the best of the best in Mobile was a big opportunity for me. I enjoyed testing my skills and my game against those defensive linemen. It was a fun experience.
JM: What do you think you proved to NFL GMs and scouts in attendance?
Javon Foster: I think I proved that I’m one of the best offensive tackles in the 2024 NFL Draft. I can pass protect on both sides of the line by playing both tackle positions. I can also run block at a high level. I showed everybody that I’m a physically dominant tackle.
JM: Everybody looks forward to the practice reps. Who were some of your favorite defensive linemen to compete against?
Javon Foster: For me, that’s been happening for me ever since I arrived at Missouri. I just have to mention Darius Robinson if I’m going to talk about any defensive lineman at all. I saw it every day in practice. I feel like iron sharpens iron. We went to battle in practice.
I know Darius Robinson is always going to bring his A-game and he knows the same about me. I knew I had to be ready for him.
JM: He’s an outstanding player. You probably met with every team. Was there a handful of them you got a great vibe from? Teams you felt like you had a great conversation/meeting with?
Javon Foster: There were a few teams I felt that way about. I’m honestly just blessed to be in this position, to have spoken with so many different teams. I shared my story, my background, and my knowledge of football in those meetings. I grew up always wanting to be in this position. Sharing my personality with those teams was an amazing experience.
JM: How would you describe your own skill set? What's Javon Foster's identity as an offensive tackle?
Javon Foster: I would start by saying I’m a flat-out dominant offensive lineman. As you can probably tell, I love to compete. With me playing in the SEC, I knew I wanted to be there because I knew I wanted to test myself in the best conference on a weekly basis.
That’s one of the reasons why I chose Missouri. I’m a dominant offensive tackle that can pass protect and run block. I create rushing lanes for my running back. I can also help keep the pocket clean for my quarterback.
JM: You have outstanding length with 34.25-inch arms. How do you use length to your advantage?
Javon Foster: I like using my arm length to strike a defender and get up on him. I feel like great offensive linemen have to switch it up sometimes. Having long arms helps me a lot when it comes to striking defensive ends. I like to shock them once in a while. There are different strengths and areas of my game that come in handy. Having a long reach is a huge advantage.
JM: Do you feel you’re a better pass protector, or run blocker at this point in time?
Javon Foster: I would honestly say I’m equal in both. Throughout my time at Missouri, we had two running backs that broke all-time program records for rushing yards. I’m a great run blocker, but I also had a great quarterback in Brady Cook. I pretty much kept him clean all season long.
JM: We’ve appreciated your time today. What’s a team getting when they use a draft pick on Javon Foster?
Javon Foster: You’re getting a dominant offensive lineman. I’m someone that’s going to bring the energy every single day to practice. I’m a very physical guy. Contact doesn’t scare me. Having played in the SEC helped prepare me for what comes next. I’m going to dominate every practice. I’m going to take every rep seriously.
I can’t wait to put my best foot forward.
