6’1″ – 302 lbs.
Was a two-game starter over a total of twelve games played as a freshman, and has been the team’s starting center ever since, although he did miss a game during his junior season. Lacks the height and length teams look for in a pro offensive lineman, although he has solid bulk for the interior. Greatest strengths as a prospect are his competitiveness and athleticism. Gives good effort throughout the play to stick with opponents, and covers more ground than is usual. Plays in an offense which calls for him to get out in space and secure blocks, both laterally and vertically. Demonstrates impressive short-area quickness and looks comfortable climbing to the second level, something he did frequently at the college level; not just an impediment to linebackers, but engages more often than not. Also able to chip an opponent at the line of scrimmage and get up to the linebackers to secure another block. Hits moving targets well. Able to cross a defender and hook them, creating lanes for runners. Generates impressive pop on contact. Competitiveness is a double-edged sword, however, especially because of his lack of length. Has a tendency to overextend himself or fall off-balance in an attempt to reach opponents outside of his frame. Gets out of control too often in general. Overall hand placement could make him penalty-prone at the next level; lets his hands slip outside too often, hugging opponents. Gets grabby when beat, which could exacerbate a bad situation. Demonstrates a solid anchor to absorb power in pass protection. When he is in position, gets good extension with his arms, doing a good job of firing out his hands with some power. Capable of pulling to the right and securing blocks on edge players. However, doesn’t defend against A-gap penetration as well as his athleticism in space would suggest; athleticism can’t always compensate for his lack of ideal length. Ends too many snaps trying to push opponents deep of the pocket instead of mirroring. Overall game is a little bit different than anticipated going in. Despite being a three-year starter at a major college football program, needs to do a better job playing inside his frame and placing his hands to avoid penalties. However, for a lineman who tips the scales at over 300 pounds, demonstrates impressive quickness and athleticism to secure blocks in space. Future may be as more of a reserve on the interior of a zone-heavy scheme which would take advantage of his movement skills. Combine measurements will be important; stock could be damaged if he’s any smaller than listed.
DRAFTEXAMINER 