A four-star prospect from Livonia, Michigan, Caleb Tiernan chose Northwestern over Big Ten conference rivals Michigan, Ohio State, and Penn State. Drawn to the school’s “family atmosphere” and emphasis on a balanced academics and athletics program, Tiernan confidently announced his decision. “I’m extremely honored and blessed to say I’m 100 percent committed to Northwestern University! Go Cats!”
However, will his decision to play for a less successful NCAAF program impact his NFL Draft standing?
Caleb Tiernan 2026 NFL Scouting Report
Measurables:
Height: 6’8”
Weight: 323 lbs.
Position: offensive tackle
School: Northwestern
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A big-bodied, multi-sport athlete who played high school basketball, Tiernan is a versatile offensive lineman with experience playing both tackle spots.
Background:
Logging over 3,000 snaps throughout his collegiate career, Tiernan was twice named to PFF’s National Team of the Week in 2025. He had an eight-game stretch in 2025 where he didn’t allow a single sack. Finishing the year with an 82.7 pass block grade, Tiernan gave up only three sacks and four QB hits in 788 offensive snaps.
In 2025, head coach David Braun praised Tiernan as a team captain, locker room leader, and elite mentor. Highlighting his exceptional work ethic and “calm and collected” demeanor, the coach exemplified Tiernan as the desirable standard for younger teammates.
Known for his reliability and consistency, Tiernan is listed as the 61st overall selection on the LWOS NFL Draft Big Board. At the NFL Combine, Tiernan earned a 74 in his Production score, ranking fourth among offensive linemen.
In addition, NFL Analyst Lance Zierlein noted he “takes excellent angles on back-side/ play-side cutoffs,” and delivered “well-timed strikes with above average pop” in pass protection. However, his relatively short 32 1/4″ arms for his 6’8” frame as a weakness that could “create issues with redirection and block seal.”
Strengths:
Superior pass protection
Precise hand placement
Solid core strength
Elite 35.5” vertical jump recorded at Combine
A good initial first step
Basketball training allows him to move well in traffic
Team captain with strong leadership skills
Weaknesses:
Short arms could limit or hamper his production
Better suited to an interior role, as playing on the outside is compromised by slow lateral moves
Inconsistent run blocking and slower reaction times
Tight hips
Average twist ability
Final Thoughts:
Nonetheless, Concerns about Tiernan’s lack of physicality in the run game persist. Nfldraftbuzz suggested he is better suited to an inside role. “The leg drive is inconsistent, and his frame works against him when defenders get low and play with leverage. A move inside to guard is a real possibility and might suit him well. His core strength, punch, and processing translate to a tighter surface area where he does not have to cover as much ground.”
Projected as a second-rounder, Tiernan is likely to be drafted between picks 50-60. Consequently, as a dependable athlete who started every single game in 2024 and 2025, Tiernan will appeal to teams seeking a durable, reliable offensive lineman. In addition, his strong work ethic and leadership skills are matched by solid instincts and savvy patience in not over-committing. However, Tiernan’s pass protection skills far outpace his run blocking abilities. Therefore, he is best suited to pass-first offenses such as the Cincinnati Bengals, Los Angeles Rams, or the Dallas Cowboys.