Arizona Cardinals select OG Hayden Conner in 6th round of NFL Draft

What Conner brings to the Cardinals:

Conner was the 19th-ranked guard and the 260th overall prospect in the draft. Next Gen Stats ranked his production 16th amongst guards and 17th in athleticism, which they a prospect grade of 5.69 and have him as a candidate for the practice squad.  

Despite the negative predictions, Conner has improved throughout the draft process. He talked to Justin Melo of Draft Network, where Conner discussed his strengths and how to overcome any weaknesses in his game.

“A lot of people told me I looked really good in the position drills. I improved my shuttle times at Pro Day as well. I ended up PRing [setting personal records] in both the three-cone and shuttle. I felt like I moved really well during the drills at the NFL Combine. I was able to showcase my athletic ability. I moved even better at Pro Day,” Conner said. “I personally think high football IQ and being extremely coachable are my two biggest strengths. I wouldn’t have been able to play all five offensive line positions if I didn’t know what I was doing, or if I didn’t have the film study habits I have.”

Ossenfort went with a high-IQ offensive lineman in the late rounds who has the work ethic to improve his game. The Cardinals GM has targeted prospects from big, pro-like schools and talented coaching staffs to bring onto the roster. Conner will be one of the many new players to join the team, experienced in a pro-like environment.