NFL Draft Preview: Tate Ratledge – Georgia’s Gritty Guard with Elite Potential
Tate Ratledge, a 6’6″, 320-pound offensive guard from the University of Georgia, has emerged as one of the most intriguing prospects in the 2025 NFL Draft. Known for his powerful frame and relentless playing style, Ratledge has been a cornerstone of Georgia’s offensive line, starting 36 of 38 games over five seasons. His journey from a five-star recruit to a projected mid-to-late Day 2 pick reflects his development and the high regard in which he’s held by scouts and analysts.
Early Life and Recruitment
Hailing from Rome, Georgia, Ratledge was a standout at Darlington High School, earning All-American honors and ranking as the No. 38 overall prospect in the 2019 recruiting class. His combination of size, strength, and athleticism made him a coveted recruit, and he chose to stay close to home by committing to Georgia.
College Career
Ratledge’s college career has been marked by both success and adversity. He was a key contributor to Georgia’s offensive line, helping pave the way for a dominant rushing attack and providing solid protection in the passing game. However, his tenure was not without challenges; he missed 14 games due to a Lisfranc foot injury in 2021 and dealt with various injuries in subsequent seasons. Despite these setbacks, Ratledge showcased resilience and determination, earning Second-Team All-American honors in 2023 and Third-Team All-American honors in 2024.
Playing Style and Strengths
Ratledge is known for his “dirtbag” mentality—a term he embraces to describe his gritty, physical playing style. He excels in power-based run schemes, utilizing his powerful hips and leg drive to generate movement at the point of attack. His wide base and solid anchor make him effective in pass protection, and his hand placement and punch can neutralize defenders when executed correctly. Scouts have noted his quick reaction to the snap count and his ability to maintain a strong anchor under pressure.
Areas for Improvement
While Ratledge possesses significant physical tools, there are areas where he can improve. His punch placement can be inconsistent, and he sometimes plays too tall, which can limit his power and make him susceptible to swim moves. Additionally, his reach blocking and second-level blocking require refinement, as he occasionally takes poor angles and drops his head when pulling or climbing, leading to missed assignments.
NFL Draft Projection
Ratledge is projected to be selected in the mid-to-late second round of the 2025 NFL Draft. His elite Relative Athletic Score (RAS) of 9.96 underscores his athleticism, while his extensive starting experience and accolades highlight his readiness for the professional level. Teams seeking a powerful, physical guard with a strong work ethic and leadership qualities will find Ratledge to be an appealing prospect.
Comparison to NFL Peers
A comparison can be drawn between Ratledge and current NFL guards who possess a similar skill set. Like Ratledge, these players have demonstrated the ability to dominate in the run game and provide solid pass protection. Their success at the professional level suggests that Ratledge has the potential to make a similar impact, provided he continues to refine his technique and adapt to the demands of the NFL.
Tate Ratledge’s journey from a highly touted recruit to a projected NFL Draft pick is a testament to his talent, perseverance, and commitment to the game. With his combination of size, strength, and playing style, he is well-equipped to succeed at the next level. As he prepares for the 2025 NFL Draft, teams will undoubtedly take notice of his potential to contribute immediately and become a cornerstone of their offensive line.
