Northwestern’s Caleb Tiernan is one of the top offensive tackle prospects in the 2026 NFL Draft, with a towering frame that gives him a solid foundation for keeping opposing defenders away from the ball. His polished skill set as a pass protector should make him a lock to come off the board at some point on Day 2.
Here’s everything NFL fans need to know about Tiernan heading into this year’s draft:
Caleb Tiernan’s Vitals
Height: 6-7
Weight: 325
Age: 23
Caleb Tiernan’s Strengths
Tough and technically sound, Tiernan is a polished pass protector with smooth feet, quickly shuffling into his pass sets and walling off edge rushers with his length. He understands proper angles and how to attack leverage, and when combined with his elite processing ability, it allows him to stay one step ahead of the defender throughout the rep. He has the upper-body strength to absorb power rushers without losing ground, and his wingspan helps keep them away from his chest. Tiernan is patient in his pass-blocking approach, keeping his balance and waiting for the right moment to strike. He’s a nasty finisher in the run game, playing with a high level of effort and physicality through the whistle.
Caleb Tiernan’s Weaknesses
He’s a big top-heavy, which can be expected from a tackle with a taller frame, but it impacts his ability to get consistent drive in the run game, especially when he fires out of his stance with a high pad level. He shows flashes of dominance as a run blocker, but highlight-reel reps are few and far between, proving the need for more consistency. His top half can get ahead of his feet when climbing to the second level to engage linebackers, and more athletic defenders can beat him to the punch when he gets off-balance.
Final Analysis
Highly experienced with 43 collegiate starts to his credit (most of them at left tackle), Tiernan is a battle-tested blocker who brings impressive size, length and power to the table. His athletic limitations could force a move inside at the next level, but teams should give him a shot to stick at tackle, where he’s proven he can handle top competition.
2026 NFL Draft Projection: Day 2 (2nd/3rd Round)
This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Mar 30, 2026, where it first appeared in the NFL section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
