His brother, Geoff, is an offensive lineman for the Carolina Panthers. Mitchell, a California prep, redshirted in 2007. Made all 13 starts in ’08 — started the first three games at right tackle before switching sides and starting the final 10 contests at left tackle. Was the starting right tackle in all 13 games in ’09. Moved to the other side of the line for the ’10 campaign, making all 12 starts at left tackle. Was limited during spring practice in ’11 with a back injury that required surgery and has bothered him previous years but made all 13 starts at left tackle in the fall. 

Outstanding size. Works to gain positioning and wall off. Can bend his knees and shuffle to push rushers wide. Gets into blocks, runs his feet and looks to finish. Functional short puller. Plays with awareness and makes line calls. Experienced, four-year starter (has played both sides). Offers versatility to play tackle or guard. Good character. Accountable, trustworthy and intelligent. Has NFL bloodlines.

Average athletic ability, quickness and base strength. Not a power player. Gives ground when he does not drop his anchor. Can improve hand use — has an elongated punch and bumps more than he jolts. Bends at the waist after his initial contact and restricts his ability to sustain. Slow shifting his weight to shadow inside counters. Inconsistent on the second level and struggles connecting with moving targets. Has a history of back injuries that have affected his strength development, and durability needs to be examined.

Big, experienced, dependable, bump-and-steer college left tackle who lacks ideal athletic ability and quickness to man the blind side in the pros, but could develop into a serviceable right tackle or kick inside. Has highly desirable size, smarts and versatility, though long-term medical assessment could affect his draft standing and pro career.