Former West Virginia offensive lineman Doug Nester has been receiving interest from multiple teams in the draft process of this year’s NFL Draft.
In an exclusive interview with The Draft Network, Nester talked about how he had some good meetings at the Shrine Bowl with the Green Bay Packers, New Orleans Saints and Pittsburgh Steelers, as well as one with the Houston Texans at the Hula Bowl.
Doug Nester started 53 career games in college between Virginia Tech and West Virginia. The Kenova, West Virginia native talked about what that transition was like between the two schools.
“I still think it was the best decision I could have made,” Nester said. “I was actually thinking about it and reflecting on the decision the other day. I wouldn’t do anything differently. I’m very thankful to have had the opportunity to play at WVU.”
“I actually played this past season with a few of my high school teammates, guys I grew up with since I was six years old. I wouldn’t trade that experience for anything.”
Nester spent most of his career as a guard before moving out to right tackle for the 2023 season. He talked about what that transition was like.
“Playing tackle is a lot more difficult. There’s a lot more space between you and the defender. That’s one of the biggest adjustments a guard has to get used to when making the move the tackle. You’re on more of an island and face more one-on-one matchups.”
Doug Nester dealt with injuries at times in the 2023 season at West Virginia. He hopes that he has improved as a player in the draft process.
“My biggest thing was that I played through the majority of the 2023 season with an injury. I wanted to showcase that I’ve improved a lot as a player despite the injury hampering me at times during our schedule. I think I went out there and showed that I’m a better player at the East-West Shrine Bowl.”
Nester also talked about what he thinks of his skill set and made his case for why he should be drafted.
“I’d highlight my ability to move defenders off the ball in the run game. That’s one of my biggest strengths. I’ve gotten a lot better in pass protection when playing as an interior offensive lineman. I showed that down at the Shrine Bowl. You can’t write a scouting report without being honest about your areas of improvement. My hand placement needs to get better. I can also do a better job playing with consistently low pad level.”
“I started 53 career games in college. It’s tough to find that experience. My work ethic speaks for itself. I’ve gotten better every single year. I’ve moved around and played multiple positions as needed. I’m somebody that can come in and compete at multiple positions.”
Doug Nester was not invited to the 2024 NFL Scouting Combine but he hopes to participate in the first conference-wide Big 12 Pro Day later this spring. The 2024 NFL Draft is set for April 25-27 in Detroit.
