There isn’t a clear-cut elite center prospect in this class, but there are multiple players who have the tools to develop into long-term starters at the NFL level. That’s what makes this group so intriguing. You’re not looking at a top-heavy class, you’re looking at depth, development, and a wide range of players who can step into different roles depending on what a team values. The overall talent level is strong, and while some prospects are more polished than others, there are plenty of options who can anchor an offensive line for years.
1. Connor Lew – Auburn
Lew stands out as one of the most talented centers in this class due to his blend of quickness, strength, and high-level processing. His ability to identify defensive fronts pre-snap and adjust protections shows up consistently on tape, and it gives him a clear path to contributing early. In pass protection, he is already operating at a high level, rarely allowing pressure and keeping the pocket clean with strong technique. His wrestling background is evident in how he controls leverage and sustains blocks through contact.
There is a real physical edge to his game that goes beyond just technical ability. He plays with intent at the point of attack and looks to finish defenders rather than simply contain them. His lateral quickness allows him to climb to the second level efficiently, and he shows the awareness to stay active once his initial assignment is handled. Even at a young age, he already looks comfortable handling the responsibilities that come with playing center.
The main concern comes from the ACL injury, which will impact his immediate availability and development timeline. His run blocking has also been less consistent than his pass protection, with some issues maintaining balance and generating push. Adding strength to handle bigger nose tackles will be important at the next level. Despite that, the overall talent and age make him one of the most appealing long-term options in the class.
Value: Round 2
2. Jake Slaughter – Florida
Slaughter brings one of the most pro-ready skill sets at the position, combining strong fundamentals with a deep understanding of the game. His ability to process defensive looks and make quick decisions stands out immediately, especially in how he handles stunts and pressure looks. In pass protection, he plays with a solid base and anchors well against power, rarely giving up clean interior pressure. There is a level of consistency in his game that makes him easy to trust snap to snap.
He also contributes effectively in the run game, where his technique and positioning allow him to generate movement when he connects cleanly. His effort to climb to the second level and stay engaged throughout the play adds value beyond just the initial block. While he may not rely on overwhelming physical traits, he consistently wins with discipline and execution. That approach should translate well to an NFL offense looking for reliability at center.
There are still areas where he can improve, particularly with maintaining balance against quicker interior rushers. At times he leans into contact instead of staying patient with his feet, which opens him up to counters. He could also benefit from adding more lower-body strength to handle stronger defenders more consistently. Even with those concerns, his floor is high and he projects as a steady presence in the middle of an offensive line.
Value: Round 2-3
3. Sam Hecht – Kansas State
Hecht is a technically sound center who wins with consistency, awareness, and discipline rather than overwhelming physical traits. His pass protection stands out immediately, as he keeps his hands inside, maintains a strong base, and rarely allows defenders to win cleanly. He processes defensive movement quickly and consistently stays in position against stunts and blitzes. The level of control he plays with makes him one of the more reliable pass protectors in this group.
What separates him is how clean his game is from snap to snap. He avoids penalties, stays balanced through contact, and understands how to position himself to win reps even without elite physical tools. There is clear growth in his tape as well, showing that he can take coaching and continue refining his technique. That kind of progression is important for projecting long-term development at the next level.
The limitations come from his lack of size and top-end strength, which show up against bigger interior defenders. He can struggle to generate push in the run game and does not always finish blocks with authority. His lateral range is also somewhat limited when asked to recover or redirect. Still, his consistency and intelligence give him a solid foundation to develop into a dependable starter.
Value: Round 3
4. Logan Jones – Iowa
Jones is an undersized center who relies heavily on athleticism, technique, and awareness to win reps. His pass protection is the best part of his game, where his quick hands and ability to mirror rushers allow him to stay in control. He does an excellent job recognizing blitzes and picking up late pressure, which is critical for the position. His experience and leadership also stand out, as he clearly operates as the anchor of the offensive line.
His movement skills allow him to reach the second level effectively and stay active throughout the play. He plays with toughness despite his size limitations and does not back down from physical matchups. There is a level of competitiveness in his game that shows up consistently on tape. That combination of awareness and effort makes him a reliable option in pass-heavy situations.
However, his size and length limitations create issues in the run game. He struggles to generate push and can be overpowered by bigger nose tackles at the point of attack. Sustaining blocks against longer defenders is also a challenge. While the floor is solid, the ceiling is somewhat limited due to those physical constraints.
Value: Round 3-4
5. Trey Zuhn III – Texas A&M
Zuhn is one of the more intriguing developmental prospects in this class due to his physical tools and overall upside. He brings a strong combination of size, movement ability, and pass protection skills that translate well to the next level. His experience across the offensive line shows up in how comfortable he looks handling different responsibilities. When he is technically sound, he can control reps and keep the pocket clean.
There is clear potential in how he moves and engages defenders, especially when working in space. He shows the ability to reach landmarks and stay balanced while climbing to the second level. His experience and leadership also add value, as he has been a consistent presence throughout his college career. The foundation is there for him to develop into a quality starter.
The biggest concern is his lack of refinement at the position, as he is still developing the nuances of playing center. His run blocking took a step back, and he can struggle with balance and consistency. There are also issues with overextending and losing control when his initial punch misses. He is a long-term projection, but the upside makes him worth the investment.
Value: Early Day 3
6. Brian Parker II – Duke
Parker is a technically sound lineman who projects well to center due to his consistency and understanding of the position. His pass protection is a strength, as he plays with controlled footwork and keeps his hands inside to maintain leverage. He does a good job recognizing defensive movement and adjusting accordingly, which is critical for handling interior pressure. There is a level of polish in his game that gives him a solid baseline.
He also brings some versatility, having experience at multiple spots along the offensive line. That flexibility adds value and increases his chances of finding a role early in his career. His footwork allows him to reach assignments efficiently, and he stays engaged throughout the play. There is steady improvement in his tape, showing that he can continue developing.
The limitations come from his lack of size and power, which show up against stronger defenders. He can struggle to anchor consistently and generate movement in the run game. His recovery ability is also average when he loses positioning early in the rep. While he may not have a high ceiling, he projects as a reliable depth option with developmental upside.
Value: Early Day 3
7. Parker Brailsford – Alabama
Brailsford is an undersized but highly active center who relies on quickness, leverage, and effort to win reps. His feet never stop moving, and that constant activity allows him to stay in position and recover when needed. He does a strong job reaching the second level and staying engaged throughout the play. There is a clear motor in his game that stands out on tape.
In pass protection, he plays with good technique and quick hands, allowing him to get into position early. He handles stunts and blitzes well, showing the awareness needed for the position. His ability to find work after his initial assignment adds extra value. He consistently competes through the whistle and looks to sustain blocks.
The main issue is his size, which creates problems against bigger interior defenders. He struggles to generate push in the run game and can be walked back by power rushers. His lack of length also forces him to rely heavily on technique to stay in control. He will need to continue refining his game to overcome those limitations.
Value: Day 3
8. Jager Burton – Kentucky
Burton is an intriguing prospect with a strong blend of athleticism, durability, and overall upside. His movement ability stands out immediately, particularly when he is working to the second level or adjusting to moving defenders in space. He has the tools to be effective in a variety of schemes, especially when asked to operate outside of tight interior spaces. The athletic profile gives him a solid foundation to build on.
There are flashes on tape that show what he can become with more development. He works well in combination blocks and shows the ability to adjust his approach depending on the defender. His strength and balance allow him to hold up when he is technically sound. The durability and experience also add value, as he has been a consistent presence on the field.
However, his technique remains inconsistent, particularly in pass protection. He can get off-balance and struggle to recover when defenders counter his initial move. His coordination between upper and lower body needs refinement, as it leads to issues with timing and control. With development, he has the potential to outplay his draft position.
Value: Day 3
9. Matt Gulbin – Michigan State
Gulbin is a physically strong interior lineman who wins with power, grip strength, and toughness rather than athleticism. In pass protection, he does a good job stalling rushers on contact and resetting his base when challenged. He brings a level of physicality that shows up consistently, especially when he is able to latch onto defenders. His ability to re-anchor helps him maintain pocket integrity.
In the run game, he plays with effort and looks to finish blocks through the whistle. He can generate movement when he is square and engaged, and he works well in combination blocks. His versatility across the offensive line also adds value, giving him multiple paths to contributing at the next level. There is a dependable aspect to his game that teams will appreciate.
The concerns come from his limited athleticism and overall consistency. He can struggle against quicker interior defenders and has issues with timing and hand placement. His pad level can also rise, leading to leverage problems against stronger opponents. He projects more as a depth option, but one that can provide value in the right role.
Value: Day 3
10. Pat Coogan – Indiana
Coogan is a smart and experienced center who brings a strong understanding of the position and how to manage an offensive line. His ability to read defenses and react quickly stands out, particularly when handling stunts and blitzes. In pass protection, he shows good timing with his hands and does a solid job anchoring against power. There is a level of reliability in how he approaches each rep.
He also contributes in the run game through positioning and effort rather than overwhelming strength. He works well in combination blocks and understands how to create lanes for the running back. His experience in high-pressure situations adds to his value, as he has consistently performed against strong competition. That background should help him transition to the next level.
The limitations come from his lack of athleticism and physical tools. He can struggle to recover when beaten and does not offer much upside as a mover in space. His length and strength limitations also show up against more powerful interior defenders. While the ceiling may be limited, he has the traits to develop into a reliable depth piece.
Value: Day 3
