Oregon offensive tackle Ajani Cornelius is among the most pro-ready linemen in the 2025 NFL Draft. A potential franchise tackle with impressive movement skills, Cornelius plays with a motor and a sense of urgency. The experienced blocker leaves Oregon as a two-year starter after beginning his career at Rhode Island.
Cornelius recently spoke exclusively with The Draft Network. Cornelius discussed his temperament as a blocker, versatility in pass protection, and more.
JM: Does Ajani Cornelius feel like he’s a versatile blocker? As a run blocker, and in pass protection?
Ajani Cornelius: Absolutely I do. When I’m at my best, I’m very disciplined in pass protection. I’m explosive in the run game with good movement. I’m excited for scouts to see the type of player I can be in the run game and the pass game throughout this pre-draft process, especially in pass protection.
JM: You've been versatile throughout your college career. What's your best positional fit at the next level? Should right tackle be your main position?
Ajani Cornelius: Yeah, absolutely. I see myself as an offensive tackle, but I am versatile enough to play other positions as well.
JM: If you had to compare yourself to a current lineman in the league, who comes to mind and why? Anyone you enjoy studying and learning from?
Ajani Cornelius: My favorite offensive tackles to watch and learn from are Lane Johnson, Penei Sewell, and Laremy Tunsil.
JM: Those are some great ones. I want to expand on your mentality in pass protection. Are you a patient blocker, or do you wanna get hands on your opponent first?
Ajani Cornelius: It really depends on the rusher. If you're going up against a power guy, it's definitely a good idea to get your hands on him first. If you're going up against a more finesse guy, patience is usually a better approach.
JM: Is that how you handle speed differently from power?
Ajani Cornelius: Yeah, I like to take a patient approach versus speed, in terms of my set. It's going to be a patient set. You don't want to lunge or give up the inside. You'll wanna be able to put the clamps on those guys.
JM: You have a lot of chemistry with Josh Conerly Jr. Together, you two ensured the Ducks program had a pair of bookends protecting the edges this past season. Going through this pre-draft process together after the season you had, it's been a hell of a ride for you two.
Ajani Cornelius: Absolutely we do. Playing on the same offensive line as Josh Conerly Jr. has been an amazing experience. He's an extremely hard worker. His work ethic leads by example.
Watching him play and learning together, it's been a true pleasure. Playing alongside him, we've truly become brothers.
JM: What's on Ajani Cornelius’ pre-game playlist?
Ajani Cornelius: A whole lot of Gunna (laughs). I can tell you that. Gunna dominates the playlist.
JM: The jersey swap at the next deal is a lot of fun, Ajani. Any jerseys you're looking to add to your collection?
Ajani Cornelius: Definitely Josh Conerly Jr., going back to him. I grew close with Jordan Burch as well. [Oregon guard] Steven Jones also comes to mind. I'd love to do that. There's a bunch of guys that come to mind, but those are my top three. Definitely those guys right there.
JM: We've appreciated your time, Ajani. What does a successful pre-draft process look like through your eyes?
Ajani Cornelius: It means I showcased my athletic ability throughout this process. I want to be a dominant offensive tackle.
