Marcus Cannon

Looking at the massive Cannon, it might be surprising to hear teammates identify him as one of the best athletes on the team. He is quite light on his feet for a man his size, a combination of size and athleticism that makes him a coveted prospect among NFL scouts. Cannon redshirted as a freshman. He played in every game as a reserve right tackle in 2007. He earned the starting role as a sophomore and was named honorable mention All-Mountain West in 2008, missing two starts due to injury. He gained greater national exposure as a junior, garnering first-team all-conference honors while starting all 13 games on the right side. He moved to left tackle in 2010, earning first-team all-conference honors for the undefeated Horned Frogs. Cannon's future might be on the interior offensive line, a conversion made by a similarly-sized former Ole Miss offensive lineman and Dolphins' 2010 third-round pick John Jerry. Cannon can use his large frame, strength and athleticism at guard, where he wouldn't worry about getting beat by elite NFL defensive ends as he would the edge. Teams needing a new right tackle might view his athleticism as a greater asset outside, increasing his value.

pass blocking

Relatively nimble for his size, but there are concerns about his ability to handle speed on the edge. Difficult for college strong-side ends to get around, especially when technique-sound. Takes short steps off the line, can backpedal when necessary to cut off blitzing linebackers. Enough lateral movement to jar the defensive end with one hand while blocking down to double-team defensive tackles. Allows defenders too far into his body instead of extending his arms to lock them out. Has a strong second punch but it takes some time to land it. Bends at the waist and takes time to recover if punched. Lines up in two-point stance even when his teammates have their hands down because he'll struggle to maintain contact off the snap. Will push off when opponent tries to disengage, instead of keeping his feet moving to sustain.

pulling/trapping

His fairly quick feet allow him to create holes when trapping inside, but his ability to pull around the line is limited. Tough to shed, but a lack of flexibility prevents him from hitting targets in space or reacting quickly to inside defenders.

intangibles

Solid player with good character and work ethic. Added 50 pounds since arriving at TCU. Only missed two games -- with an ankle injury in 2008.

run blocking

Has the prototypical size to drive defenders off the line. Uses his size to seal the edge and wall off inside rushing lanes, but does not consistently get his hands up to manhandle smaller players he should dominate. Strong enough to anchor against the bull rush from bigger defensive linemen and turn them out of the hole. Needs to get out of three-point stance more quickly, but might be more explosive when lined up closer to the ball inside.

downfield

Can reach linebackers at the second level when he gets out of his stance quickly. Fails to hit targets, only getting a hand on them instead of engulfing them with his size. Defenders often deflect off of his blocks to make plays.

initial quickness

Only adequate initial quickness; often comes off the snap last. Quick defensive ends can beat him outside, especially when quarterback takes a five- or seven-step drop. Can land a strong punch, but is slow to get his hands up to control his opponent.

First-team All-District and honorable mention 5A all-state as a senior

an honorable mention all-district selection his junior year

ranked 59th nationally among offensive linemen by Rivals.com

also lettered in basketball, track and field, and powerlifting

chose TCU over Iowa State, Kansas, Kansas State, Texas A&M and UTEP

has an uncle, Allen Cannon who played football at Vanderbilt (1981-82).

Parents are Ebbie and Holly Cannon

full name is Marcus Darell Cannon

is a communications major

also is a member of the TCU track and field team, competing in the shot put

named All-MWC in track after finishing second in the shot at the 2009 MWC Championships with a mark of 54-10.