6’3” – 321 lbs.
Has been starting at center since his freshman season, totaling forty-one games over the past three years before foregoing his senior season in order to declare for the draft. Was this year’s recipient of the Rimington Award, annually given to the nation’s top center. A little bit on the short side for a pro interior lineman, but with excellent bulk. Tough and workmanlike blocker who can execute in a phone booth. Has a lot of power in his hands and is capable of locking on, using his upper body to generate torque, and twisting opposing defensive tackles to the ground. Understands positioning and can successfully maneuver himself and utilize his lower-body strength in order to wall off defenders. Occasionally, can knock opposing defenders off-balance on initial contact and pick up pancake blocks. Overall athleticism is about average for his size, but has just enough short-area quickness to chip one defender and secure another block. Not the rangiest in terms of climbing the second level, was asked to do that in Wisconsin’s offense and flashes the ability to engulf linebackers a few yards downfield. Was also tasked with pulling fairly regularly, although he’ll probably be better-suited in an inline/power blocking scheme at the pro level. Pad level can rise and legs can occasionally go dead on contact, limiting the amount of push he generates. Will occasionally lower his head and end up on the ground. Plays with a wide base in pass protection. For the most part, is able to keep his back straight and getting his arms extended, although because of his lack of ideal height and length, can sometimes get caught lunging. Looks comfortable handling power; low center of gravity and thick lower body allow him to absorb bull-rushes without being walked back into the pocket. Actively seeks out teammates to help when he’s not dealing with a rusher of his own. However, is not the most fluid and laterally quick prospect; movements can be a little bit stilted. Despite not always making it look pretty, is able to rely on his bulk and lower-body strength to get the job done most of the time in pass protection. A three-year starter from one of college football’s most respected offensive line factories, he brings pro-ready smarts, bulk, and strength but his overall athleticism leaves something to be desired, and may limit the number of teams who view him as a scheme fit. Has gotten some first-round hype but seems more like a second-day option.
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