The Tennessee Titans made a significant move in the 2023 NFL Draft by selecting Peter Skoronski from Northwestern University as the 11th overall pick. This 6-foot-4, 313-pound offensive lineman is renowned for his exceptional technique, athleticism, and physical prowess, promising to be a robust addition to the Titans’ front line. While Peter Skoronski primarily played left tackle for the Northwestern Wildcats, starting in that position for three years, his versatility allows for a potential shift inside to guard, a position he experienced early in his college career. Hailing from Park Ridge, Illinois, Skoronski’s durability and consistency are noteworthy; he maintained a perfect attendance record throughout his Northwestern career, starting in all 33 games he played at left tackle.
Career Milestones at Northwestern
Peter Skoronski’s 2022 season at Northwestern was particularly remarkable. In his final year with the Wildcats, he achieved unanimous first-team All-American status, a historic first for the program. This honor came after he started all 12 games at left tackle, anchoring the offensive line and showcasing his dominance.
Titans Tidbits: Legacy and Athleticism
Football pedigree runs in Skoronski’s family. His grandfather, Bob Skoronski, was a celebrated left tackle for the Green Bay Packers for nine seasons. Bob Skoronski’s Packers career included serving as a permanent offensive captain under the legendary Vince Lombardi from 1964 to 1968 and contributing to five NFL championship victories. His legacy was cemented with his induction into the Packers Hall of Fame in 1976.
Peter Skoronski also demonstrated exceptional athleticism at the 2023 NFL Scouting Combine. Among all offensive linemen present, he ranked high in several key drills, including second in the vertical jump (34.50 inches), second in the broad jump (9 feet 7 inches), fifth in the bench press (30 reps), and ninth in the 10-yard split (1.75 seconds). Beyond the field, Skoronski’s interests are varied. He has a black lab named Slim and, having minored in history, considers himself a “history nerd.” His musical tastes lean towards country, with artists like Luke Combs, Tim McGraw, and Darius Rucker among his favorites. He also enjoys the popular TV show “The Office,” showcasing a well-rounded personality off the gridiron.
Professional Journey: From College to the NFL Draft
Peter Skoronski’s journey to the NFL culminated in being drafted by the Titans in the first round of the 2023 NFL Draft. His consistent performance throughout his college career made him a highly sought-after prospect.
College Career in Detail
Skoronski’s college career at Northwestern was marked by consistent starts and accolades. He started in all 33 games at left tackle, never missing a game. His freshman year earned him second-team All-Big Ten honors, followed by first-team recognition in his sophomore and junior years. He is the first offensive lineman in Northwestern’s history to receive two first-team All-Big Ten awards. His draft selection was the highest for Northwestern since 1983, and he became the 11th first-round pick in program history, underscoring his elite status.
In his junior year (2022), Peter Skoronski was awarded the Rimington-Pace Big Ten Offensive Lineman of the Year, a first for a Northwestern player. He was also a finalist for the prestigious 2022 Outland Trophy, awarded to the nation’s best interior lineman. Statistically, Skoronski excelled in pass protection, achieving the highest pass-blocking grade in the country by Pro Football Focus (PFF) at 93.0, allowing minimal pressure on numerous pass-blocking snaps. His run-blocking grade was also highly commendable, ranking fifth among Power 5 tackles.
During his sophomore year (2021), he continued to start at left tackle, contributing to a successful rushing season for teammate Evan Hull. His performance earned him first-team All-Big Ten honors from coaches and second-team from the media. As a true freshman in 2020, in a season shortened by COVID-19, Skoronski started all nine games, playing a key role in the Wildcats’ Big Ten Championship Game appearance. He was recognized as a True Freshman All-American by 247Sports, being the highest-graded freshman in the Big Ten. His contributions helped Northwestern achieve impressive rushing statistics and limited sacks allowed. Academically, Peter Skoronski majored in economics at Northwestern, highlighting his commitment to both academics and athletics.
Personal Background
Peter Skoronski’s roots are in Park Ridge, Illinois, where he attended Maine South High School. A four-star recruit, he was highly ranked nationally as a center and the top player in Illinois by 247Sports. He earned All-State honors in his final two high school years and was a three-time All-Conference and All-Area selection, accumulating an impressive 173 pancake blocks in his high school career. Skoronski led his high school team to multiple conference championships and was part of a state championship-winning team. Beyond football, he earned letters in basketball and track and field, and was a member of the National Honor Society, showcasing his diverse talents and academic excellence. His parents are Anne and Bob, and he has siblings Elizabeth and Robbie. Fans can follow Peter Skoronski on social media platforms X (formerly Twitter) @pskoronski and Instagram @peterskoronski. He was born Peter Joseph Skoronski on July 31, 2001, in Chicago, Illinois.
Alt text: Peter Skoronski, a promising offensive lineman, poses confidently in his Tennessee Titans jersey after being selected as the 11th overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft.
Alt text: Peter Skoronski, Northwestern Wildcats left tackle, in action on the field, demonstrating his agility and strength during a college football game.