Scouting Report 2023: Evaluating UCLA Guard Atonio Mafi for the Cowboys

Anchor: Mafi is a huge body, and with that comes a great anchor. He does not get bullied or pushed around, period. There are a lot of ways in which his tape is reminiscent of Tyler Smith, and both have excellent anchors. Lateral Agility: For as many Tyler Smith comparisons as Mafi has earned, he’s not the same type of athlete. That shows up in his below average lateral agility. He’s not a swift mover and appears to be overly stiff in his legs, a common issue with linemen that big. Point of Attack: Mafi plays like a freight train at the point of attack, slamming into defenders with reckless abandon. He clearly loves trench life, and thrives on the physical nature of the position. Balance: He carries a low center of gravity, thus providing him with great balance as a mover. This goes hand in hand with his anchor ability, and really highlights Mafi’s bright future as a guard.