The University of Texas at Austin Athletics
Blalock chosen 39th overall by Atlanta Falcons in 2007 NFL Draft
04.28.2007 | Football
University of Texas OG/T Justin Blalock was selected by the Atlanta Falcons with the 39th pick overall and the seventh pick of the second round of the 2007 NFL Draft on Saturday.
"What an exciting day," Blalock said. "I really can't explain the feeling. It's been a long process. I'm glad it's over and now I get to get back on the field pretty soon, so I'm excited about that and looking forward to being a Falcon. Going on the first day is truly a blessing."
Blalock is the third Longhorn selected in this year's draft, giving Texas at least three draft picks for the fifth consecutive year. The five consecutive years with at least three picks is the most for UT since seven straight drafts from 1950-56.
It is the second straight year at least one Texas offensive lineman has been drafted following the selection of Jonathan Scott in the fifth round by the Detroit Lions. Blalock becomes the first Longhorn drafted by the Falcons since WR Alfred Jackson in the seventh round in 1978. The Falcons have also drafted LB Tommy Nobis in the first round in 1966 and TE Deryl Comer in the 14th round in 1971.
"Justin Blalock brings flexibility with positions," said head coach Mack Brown. "He can play center, guard and both tackles. He was a dominating blocker with good enough feet to still pull and pass protect, but started 50-plus games and didn't miss a practice or a game because of injury. He's smart, consistent, ready to play every week and a dominating blocker who was quick enough to do so much more than just block. We though in high school he would an NFL player, because he's one of the more dominating offensive linemen we've ever been around."
Blalock started a UT record 51 consecutive games during his career, breaking Dan Neil's record of 49 (1993-96). In 2006, he was named a Lombardi Award (nation's top lineman) and Outland Trophy (nation's top interior lineman) finalist, as well as being a unanimous first-team All-America selection. Blalock was a three-time first-team All-Big 12 pick and was named inaugural Big 12 Offensive Lineman of the Year in 2006 when he helped Texas gain 162.6 rushing yards per game (34th NCAA), 391.5 total yards per game (23rd NCAA) and score 35.9 points per game (seventh NCAA).
"Justin Blalock had 51 straight starts," said offensive coordinator Greg Davis. "Every time a pro scout calls me, that's what I tell them -- 51 straight starts at The University of Texas. He played three years as a tackle. The last year, he played inside at guard, and I think he's a guy who's capable of playing center. I think he's extremely bright, and the thing I think he brings to any pro football team is the flexibility to play any of the three inside spots, plus perhaps to fill in at tackle."
