The Sports Xchange

After a couple of years in which pass protectors were prized early picks, the 2015 NFL Draft class offers less star power but may provide decent depth on the offensive line.

According to ratings by NFLDraftScout.com, there may two offensive tackles among the first ten players selected when the draft begins April 30 in Chicago. This follows two consecutive years in which that many tackles were taken among the first five picks.

Top tackle this year figures to be Brandon Scherff, who hopes to hold up a long Iowa tradition of big blockers and La’el Collins, a mean-spirited lineman from LSU. A maximum of six tackles could be called in the first round and about 10 among the first 100 names called.

The first guard may not be selected until the middle of the second round, when South Carolina’s A. J. Cann is expected to be named, followed by Duke’s Laken Tomlinson.

In an unusual twist, two of the more intriguing linemen in this draft are centers, starting with Florida State’s versatile Cameron Erving, who may be one of the top tackles as well, and Oregon’s Hroniss Grasu, the real triggerman who kept up the pace of the Ducks’ fabled offense — all due respect to quarterback Marcus Mariota, Grasu’s receiver, as it were.

Here is a closer look at the top offensive linemen in the NFL’s 2015 draft (position rating/overall rating. Player, college, height, weight, 40-yard time, projected round. *=underclassman):

OFFENSIVE TACKLES

1/8. Brandon Scherff, Iowa, 6-5, 319, 5.00, 1

–Big Iowa tradition: This latest Iowa gift for the NFL plays as if he began preparing for the job when he was born the day after Christmas, 1991. He will be Iowa’s fourth offensive lineman selected in the first round since 2004, following Robert Gallery, Bryan Bulaga and Riley Reiff. Scherff is unanimously acknowledged as the most NFL-ready offensive lineman in the draft, and a coach’s dream, but there is no consensus on what position he should play. He could use his broad shoulders and toughness at guard, where he played as a freshman, or show his excellent technique at tackle, where he lined up on the left side the rest of his college career and was named consensus All-America and winner of the Outland Trophy last season as the best college lineman. Those who want him inside are concerned he lacks the quick feet and long arms needed against the NFL’s fast pass rushers. As a sophomore, he suffered a broken fibula and dislocated ankle, but this tough guy missed only one day of practice after procedure on knee last year. Scherff first showed diverse athletic ability at Dennison (Iowa) High School in a football career that included 1,200 yards passing as a 280-pound sophomore quarterback; 200 yards and five touchdowns receiving as a junior and then, playing both sides of the line, he led the team in tackling and blocking. Scherff also starred in baseball, tennis and was the state shot put champion as a sophomore.

–Measuring up: Although a hamstring injury limited Scherff’s workout at the combine, he grabbed attention with the biggest hands in the draft (11 inches, tied with four others), although they are on arms a bit shorter than desirable (33 3/8th inches) on linemen. He ran 40 yards once (5.05 seconds) before hamstring cut workout short. At March 23 pro day, Scherff launched that massive body 32 inches in vertical jump and benched 225 pounds 28 times.

–Notable quote: “I don’t think there would be a challenge. I like run blocking. It would be a little closer. You’re getting a little help from the center also. I think it would be a smooth move for me. Like I said I’ll be happy to play wherever they want me to play.” — Scherff, when asked how he would feel about playing guard in the NFL.

–Frankly: Physically, mentally and emotionally Scherff is exactly what a coach wants in an offensive lineman. Draft him and then figure out where he can best help.

2/10. La’el Collins, Louisiana State, 6-4, 305, 5.12, 1

–The Eliminator: Collins has three styles of play: mean, meaner and meanest as he not only blocks defenders, he often eliminates them. Coaches credit Collins with 222.5 knockdowns in 45 games. He has the potential to play right tackle or either guard position in the NFL, but does not have the pass-blocking ability needed to be a left tackle. On running plays, Collins launches his broad, muscular frame straight forward with alarming quickness, then engages the strength of his lower body and massive hands (10 3/4 inches). Although he can get to the next level, he is not nimble enough to be an effective open-field blocker. Collins is improving as a pass blocker, but too much aggression and not enough balance make him susceptible to both speed rushers and end/tackle games that require patience he does not have.

–Measuring up: At his March 27 pro day, Collins crushed the scales at 320 pounds, up from 305 at the combine. Could mean he leaned out for speed and agility in workouts, but the added weight should be a plus. Only his hands were remarkable at combine 10 3/8th inches), as his other marks were marginally acceptable — 40 yards in 5.12 seconds (10 in 1.75), vertical jump of 27 inches, broad jump of 9-feet even and 21 reps on the bench with 225 pounds was less than expected after watching his ferocity on the field.

–Notable quote: “When I started playing football, I started playing defense and made the transition to playing offense in high school. I’ve always had the mentality of a defensive lineman, and I was able to bring that over to the offense, but also bring intelligence over to play offensive line. For me to go out there with that mentality and just get after it is something I bring to the table.” — Collins, explaining he can fit into any system.

–Frankly: Collins should be a respected team leader in the locker room, especially when he takes charge on the field with an aggressive approach that reflects his background on defense. If he can’t make it at tackle he will be a great guard.

3/19. *Andrus Peat, Stanford, 6-7, 313, 5.18, 1

–Hoops helped: Peat is proof that basketball experience helps develop the great footwork necessary to be a pass-blocking offensive tackle. The quick feet that helped lead Corona del Sol High School to a Division 1 Arizona State basketball championship, served Peat well at Stanford’s left tackle spot, where he won the Morris Trophy last season as the best lineman in the Pac-12, per votes by opposing players. Scouts suggest Peat lacks a mean streak or toughness, but they rave about that agile footwork and ability to slide and glide into the face of pass rushers. However, he had one nightmarish game against Utah’s pass-rushing outside linebacker Nate Orchard that remains a bad chapter on his resume. When Peat is drafted in the first round, he will have bragging rights at home where his father, Todd, was only an 11th-round pick as an offensive lineman out of Northern Illinois in 1987 and played a total of seven years for the St. Louis/Phoenix Cardinals and Los Angeles Raiders.

–Measuring up: At combine, Peat stood exactly 1/8th inch under 6-foot-7 with a wing span of 80 2/4 inches and large hands (10 5/8 inches), all of which are good for a pass blocker. Decent 40 yards at 5.18 seconds (10 in 1.81), vertical jump of 31 inches and broad jump of 8-feet-9 inches.

–Notable quote: “The pro style scheme has really prepared me. It’s a great culture of offensive linemen: David DeCastro, Cameron Fleming, David Yankey. My coaches have prepared me.” — Peat at combine, discussing his Stanford experience.

–Frankly: Peat may be the best ready-to-go, pass-blocking tackle in this draft and should have a better career than his dad. Now let’s see how little brother Cassius, an outside linebacker, does after signing with Ohio State in January.

4/21. *Ereck Flowers, Miami (Fla.), 6-6, 329, 5.31, 1

—Mean Mauler: Flowers knows how to use his humongous frame to block for both the pass and the run. He shows excellent football instincts as a pass protector with experience on the left side, but at his core Flowers is mean-spirited mauler who loves to out-muscle defenders until the whistle stops blowing. The only real concern about Flowers is the possibility of any lingering effects from a knee injury last season, although he showed his already well-known toughness and dedication by missing only one game following a so-called minor surgical procedure. If doctors give Flowers clearance, some teams may be willing to call his name in the middle of the first round.

–Measuring up: One look and the word massive comes to mind, at 1/4 inch over 6-feet-6 and a wide 329 pounds that stretches 83 1/4 inches in wingspan. Flowers’ 37 reps on the bench with 225 pounds is even more impressive considering his long arms (34 1/2 inches). Foot speed is average with a 40-yard time of 5.21 seconds (10 in 1.90). He did not do jumps or shuttle at combine.

–Notable quote: “We run the zone block in Miami, we run man, that’s what Miami does and I think that’s why Miami’s been successful in the NFL. Our coaches do a good job emulating the stuff they’re doing in the NFL and college so we ran man, zone so I’ll be fine wherever I go.”

–Frankly: A big man among big men, Flowers shows good instincts as a pass blocker, but admits he enjoys run blocking and that is evident in his play. If his knee is OK, the only problems he may have will be against elite speed rushers — same as even the best tackles in the league.

5/31. T.J. Clemmings, Pittsburgh, 6-5, 309, 5.12, 1-2

–Promising prospect: Clemmings’ high ratings as a pro prospect are based almost entirely on projection, not production. That’s pretty much the same position he was in coming out of high school. Per his mother’s wishes, Clemmings didn’t play football until his junior year in high school and he showed just enough for Pittsburgh to offer him a scholarship, although as a defensive end. It is noteworthy he played basketball all through high school and was offered scholarships by Providence, Seton Hall and Rutgers. Instead, he played defensive end as a true freshman at Pittsburgh, then red-shirted in 2011. At the end of 2012 he practiced at offensive tackle, but didn’t play in a game. In 2013 his athletic ability was obvious at offensive tackle, but he was inconsistent. Last season, Clemmings had more problems with the snap count (seven false starts) than defenders, who he mauled on runs, especially. His pass blocking is a work in progress, which was obvious at the Senior Bowl workouts. But his athleticism and upside are tremendous, as noted at the combine.

Measuring up: With the second widest wing span (85 7/8ths inches) and second longest arms (35 1/8th inches) at the combine, Clemmings is impressive just standing there. He looked even better on the move — 40 yards in 5.14 seconds (10 in 1.82), a 32.5-inch vertical jump, 9-foot-3 inch broad jump and, as evidence of great agility and quickness, 4.54 seconds in the shuttle and 7.68 seconds in the three-cone drills.

–Notable quote: “It doesn’t bother me. If that is what they feel then that’s fine. I only had two years on the offensive line under my belt and that’s not going to change from now to the draft. I need some work in some things and I am not afraid of that. I am ready to work on things that people feel I need to work on.” — Clemmings, at combine, when asked how he feels when described as “raw.”

–Frankly: Clemmings is an interesting project who should not be expected to play left tackle any time soon and may need time to be reliable at right tackle. On the right team, with good coaching and patience, he has the potential to be outstanding.

6/38. Jake Fisher, Oregon, 6-6, 306, 4.97, 1-2

–Technically speaking: Fisher has some interesting physical abilities, but seems to know he is not an elite athlete and prides himself on learning and perfecting techniques, which he works on with San Francisco 49ers veteran tackle Joe Staley. They are both former high school tight ends from Michigan. After playing as a backup guard during his freshman year, Fisher became starting right tackle in 2012 and in 2013 was considered the anchor for an offensive line that helped Oregon’s up-tempo offense lead the Pac-12 in rushing (273.5 yards per game), total offense (565 yards per game and scoring (45.5 points per game). Oregon’s line was in disarray due to injuries last year and when starter Tyler Johnstone was sidelined for the year, Fisher moved from right to left tackle, where he started 13 games despite missing time with an ACL injury and was named to the All-Pac 12 first team.

–Measuring up: Although he has big hands (10 3/8ths inches), they are on the end of arms shorter than preferred for an offensive tackle (33 3/4 inches). At the combine he showed excellent speed (40 yards in 5.01 seconds, third best among offensive linemen) and agility (20-yard shuttle in 4.33 seconds, by far the best among offensive linemen). He added a 32.5-inch vertical jump and benched 225 pounds 25 times.

–Notable quote: “I think that’s what I bring to a team. I bring a practice style that doesn’t quit the whole game. We have a special game up at Oregon. I bring that to my next team, a practice style that can help other guys work harder, prepare themselves better.” — Fisher at combine, when asked how Oregon’s up-tempo play impacted him.

–Frankly: Fisher is a vocal leader who will set a mad pace with his work ethic on the field, in the film room and in the weight room. At the very least he should be a reliable starter for as long as he stays healthy in the NFL.

7/49. *D.J. Humphries, Florida, 6-5, 307, 5.06, 2

–Limps into NFL: After ending his last two seasons early with a knee injury, Humphries apparently thought it is time to at least get paid for his pain. Obviously, Humphries will need to be more durable to stay on the payroll in the NFL. He is still riding on a phenomenal reputation from Mallard Creek High School in Charlotte, N.C., where he did not allow a sack in three seasons and in 2011 won the Anthony Munoz Award as the best prep lineman in the country. When he is healthy, Humphries displays excellent athletic ability, quickness, balance and strength. He has quick anticipation, sets hard and fast or explodes out to pick up a fast edge rusher. NFL advisory board suggested that he return to college for another year, but Humphries said “I just felt it was my time.”

–Measuring up: After knee, ankle injuries in September, Humphries got ready for the combine and it showed. At exactly 6-foot-5 inches, 307 pounds he ran 40 yards in 5.12 seconds (10 in 1.84), benched 225 pounds 26 times, and added a vertical jump of 31 inches.

–Notable quote: “I think my fluid athletic ability sets me apart from other guys. There’s a lot of guys that are very athletic just like I am but I think I’m very fluid in how athletic I am. I think my pass-protecting skill is kind of my main thing that’s going to make me stick out. How quick I can get to the second level and get on linebackers and get to safeties.” — Humphries at combine, when asked what sets him apart.

–Frankly: When healthy, Humphries is football’s version of The Natural (a movie about a baseball pitcher), whose instincts are remarkable in one of the game’s most difficult tasks — pass blocking. His biggest problems are staying healthy and keeping weight on. If he beats those problems there is no telling how good he will be.

8/71. Ty Sambrailo, Colorado State, 6-6, 311, 5.31, 2-3

–Pick-a-Sport: This big boy’s unusual athleticism might best be reflected when he does back flips and freestyle tricks skiing, a sport in which he won the USSA titles in the Far West Division for his age group in the slalom and giant slalom. In football, Sambrailo helped turn around the sagging football program at St. Francis Central Coast Catholic High in the little seaside town of Watsonville (Calif.). He was a three-year team captain, played offensive tackle, defensive end, defensive tackle, tight end and placekicker for the Sharks, who advanced to the CIF north Division II playoffs in both 2008 and 2009. Oh yes, he also played soccer and as a junior made second-team all-conference as a kicker in football. At Colorado State, he continued to impress with his overall athleticism as a key blocker in a prolific offense. He has the footwork and agility to be an NFL tackle but may be moved to guard. Only stain on career is 2012 St. Patrick’s Day party that got out of hand and Sambrailo was stabbed in the back (required 14 staples), but he is well-liked by teammates who voted him captain last year.

–Measuring up: His feel for the sport — almost any sport — doesn’t seem quantifiable. He had decent results at combine, including a sluggish 40-yard dash of 5.36 seconds (decent 10 in 1.80), vertical jump of only 29 inches and benched 225 pounds 23 times. His arms are shorter than desired for a tackle (33 inches).

–Notable quote: “As a family we did all right athletically. My sister played Oregon State volleyball, my brother was a competitive skier, dad pole vaulted, my mom did a lot of different things athletically. Don’t know where it came from or why it’s here; we have good genes, I guess.” — Sambrailo at combine, discussing his family’s active and diverse athletic background, although he didn’t mention that his grandfather, Bill, played football at Santa Clara.

–Frankly: Sambrailo is that guy who picks up any sport with disgusting ease, but that isn’t enough in the NFL. Still, he adds an intense, competitive attitude with a work-all-day ethic and natural leadership and what team doesn’t want all that?

9/96. Daryl Williams, Oklahoma, 6-5, 327, 5.34, 3

–Mr. Outside or Inside?: Although Williams’ thick body and initial quickness are impressive, he doesn’t really show the elite footwork necessary to cope with pass rushers in the NFL. After being exposed by speedy defenders at the Senior Bowl workouts, there was talk among scouts who feel Williams may be a more reliable guard in the NFL. Certainly his natural mass, great strength and powerful drive blocking would be definite assets on the inside. Still, Williams has a great understanding of pass protection although he sometimes can’t transfer his film study to the field and can get crossed up by stunts or left a step behind by quick pass rushers.

–Measuring up: His best quantifiable trait for a tackle are those long arms (34 3/4 inches), which help compensate for average foot speed (40 yards in 5.34 seconds; 10 in 1.83). His vertical jump was below average at 26 inches, but he did well on the bench, with 27 reps (225 pounds).

–Notable quote: “Williams is also a powerful drive blocker. … does not possess ideal quickness to combat NFL speed rushers but he’s so long and balanced, he can remain outside.”– NFLDraftScout.com senior analyst Rob Rang, reporting from the Senior Bowl practice.

–Frankly: We know he can play right tackle and probably would be a reliable guard, but in an emergency his pass blocking experience and long arms might be good to have on the roster.

10/99. Cedric Ogbuehi, Texas A&M, 6-5, 306, 4.98, 3

–Bad Timing: Everybody had Ogbuehi projected as a first round draft pick until he blew out his knee (ACL)in the Liberty Bowl. In fact, he was rated as a first round prospect for the 2014 draft, but returned for a senior year and moved from right to left tackle. The season was not a raging success as he appeared to be playing in manner that seemed he was trying to avoid injury rather than go all out. So the injury was all the more ironic. He was expected to be the third left tackle from Texas A&M in three years to go in the first round. Instead he joined the previous two — Luke Joeckel and Jake Matthews — on the Walter Camp All-America team. When healthy, Ogbuehi is a powerful run blocker and agile, athletic pass blocker, but isn’t considered an enforcer, especially off his measured, 2014 season performances. He has experience at guard and depending on how he plays after rehab, that may be handy.

Measuring Up: Although the only work he could do at the combine was bench press 225 pounds, which he did 23 times. However, his measurements were excellent, especially long arms (35 7/8 inches) and big hands (10 inches).

–Notable quote: “I haven’t reached my potential yet, and just with my arms and my feet, once I reach my potential it’ll be fun to see. I’ll be a guy that can come in and protect (Matthew) Stafford. That’s the No. 1 goal protect the quarterback. I can be here for a long time.” — Ogbuehi, during his visit to the Detroit Lions.

–Frankly: Some teams think that the tepid play in his “college contract year” might be a window into his soul and question Ogbuehi’s commitment to the game, but such thoughts are counter to the NFL’s safety initiative. He showed plenty of ability over the years and the magic of modern medicine should make Ogbuehi almost whole again, but maybe not physically and mentally until the 2016 season.

Also:

11/104. Donovan Smith, Penn State, 6-6, 338, 5.18, 3-4

12/115. Rob Havenstein, Wisconsin, 6-7, 321, 5.41, 3-4

13/134. Tyrus Thompson, Oklahoma, 6-5, 324, 5.35, 4

14/154. Austin Shepherd, Alabama, 6-4, 315, 5.37, 4-5

15/166. Sean Hickey, Syracuse, 6-5, 309, 5.14, 5

16/191. Terry Poole, San Diego State, 6-5, 307, 5.08, 5-6

17/200. Andrew Donnal, Iowa, 6-6, 313, 5.30, 6

18/203. Corey Robinson, South Carolina, 6-7, 324, 5.33, 6

19/236. Laurence Gibson, Virginia Tech, 6-6, 305, 5.03, 6-7

20/252. Doniel Gambrell, Notre Dame (OH), 6-5, 306, 5.27, 7

21/272. Eric Lefeld, Cincinnati, 6-6, 310, 5.22, 7-FA

22/287. Jamon Brown, Louisville, 6-4, 323, 5.08, 7-FA

23/295. Cameron Clear, Texas AM, 6-5, 277, 4.87, 7-FA

24/313. Takoby Cofield, Duke, 6-4, 310, 5.15, 7-FA

25/320. Trent Brown, Florida, 6-8, 355, 5.21, 7-FA

26/333. Jake Rodgers, Eastern Washington, 6-5, 315, 5.24, 7-FA

27/351. Chaz Green, Florida, 6-5, 314, 5.12,

28/367. Mickey Baucus, Arizona, 6-6, 298, 5.46,

OFFENSIVE GUARDS

1/43. A.J. Cann, South Carolina, 6-3, 313, 5.18, 2

— Cann Can: Starting with a career at Bamberg-Ehrhardt High School in South Carolina in which he did not give up a sack, Cann maintained his momentum at South Carolina after redshirting in 2010. Since then he started in 52 of the team’s 52 games. He is a no-nonsense, blue collar, in-your-face offensive guard. By last season he was the unquestioned leader of the offensive line and was named first-team All-America by The Sporting News, ESPN.com and CBS Sports. His 51 starts are the second most in school history behind only T.J. Johnson’s 53. His brute force should not be wasted on some zone blocking front line that relies on precise choreography. Cann doesn’t sweat the small details, he just eradicates whoever is in front of him.

–Measuring up: Defenders will attest to his strong, big hands (10 1/8th inches) and powerful punch (26 reps on bench with 225 pounds). His jumps were average, 28.5 inches in the vertical and 8-feet-5 inches in broad. Speed in 40 yards was decent at 5.18 seconds (10 in 1.80).

–Notable quote: “I think I play at a very low level, and I think I’m athletic and strong. For a guard, I think I’m really athletic. I’m quick, and I think I can basically block anybody if I put my mind to it. I’ll do whatever I’ve got to do.” — Cann at combine, describing his own style of play.

–Frankly: A brutish bull of a man whose strength and abilities are perfect to play guard in the NFL. He is responsible on an off the field, Cann has a degree in African-American Studies and went on a mission to Israel before his senior season.

2/53. Laken Tomlinson, Duke, 6-3, 323, 5.31, 2

–Island Import: Born in Jamaica, Tomlinson relocated to the U.S. when he was 10 and didn’t play football until he was a freshman at Lane Technical High School in Chicago. He picked up the game so well that Duke recruited him as both an offensive and defensive lineman and waited to see how he turned out. After some adjustment, Tomlinson started and starred at right guard in 52 games over the last four years and was a three-time All-ACC first-team selection. He appears to be perfectly constructed for an NFL guard with thick hips and a broad upper body that is difficult to neutralize. But he seems a bit robotic at times and it will be interesting to see how he adapts to taking on more athletic defenders in the NFL. He did impress at Senior Bowl workouts showing expected power against bull rush, but surprising lateral quickness in pass protection.

Tomlinson is already looking beyond football and intends to enter medical school to become a neurosurgeon.

–Measuring up: In his March 25 pro day, Tomlinson improved some of his combine marks, including the 40-yard dash (5.16 seconds on hand held watch at pro day; 5.33 electronic time at combine). At combine he showed his sheer size is a great start with an 82 1/2 inch wingspan and big hands (10 1/4 inches). He benched 225 pounds 25 times and had a vertical jump of 31.5 inches.

–Notable quote: “concussions in the NFL can lead to depression, especially in high impact positions. Wide receivers and running backs, those guys are prone to more low-impact collisions than anyone else in the game. So the research that’s going on right now adds more to the knowledge at hand.” — Tomlinson at combine, when discussing his ambition to be a neurosurgeon.

–Frankly: Although Duke is better known for producing NBA guards, Tomlinson should be one of only four Blue Devil alums to play more than 50 games in NFL. Tomlinson will start as soon as he shows he can cope with the speed and athleticism of NFL players.

3/68. Tre Jackson, Florida State, 6-4, 330, 5.49, 2-3

–Mighty Martrevius: Full bodied Martrevius “Tre” Jackson may have the best raw ability of any guard in the draft, but this massive man must improve his technique in the NFL, where he will no longer be able to simply outmuscle opponents. As a key blocker for quarterback Jameis Winston, Jackson man-handled most defenders during his 42 games as a starter. He was All-ACC in 2013 and consensus All-America as a senior.

–Measuring up: At the combine his announced time on 40-yard dash was 5.52 seconds, but his best time on hand held watches was 4.49. He was able to get that big body 25 inches off the ground in vertical jump but looked more at home pumping 225 pounds on the bench, 25 times.

–Notable quote: “I’m a power blocker. . . to make my game better, I need to improve my pass blocking to play at a high level.” — Jackson at combine on his best traits and areas that need work.

–Frankly: Jackson is a game-day mauler who obviously is no gymnast in a combine setting. His future success will depend on how much he wants to work on details and technique because he cannot rely on simply overpowering everybody at the next level.

4/80. Ali Marpet, Hobart, 6-4, 307, 4.96, 2-3

–Ready to step up: Marpet is a first class pro prospect from a Division III school that never had a football player taken in the draft. After starting every game for the last three seasons and dominating defenders in his division, Marpet answered a few questions during Senior Bowl practices. NFLDraftScout.com senior analyst’s report from Mobile, Ala. that week: “arguably the most pleasant surprise of the 2015 Senior Bowl. All week long, the former Statesman left tackle demonstrated impressive strength, balance and toughness despite making the jump from Division III and switching inside to guard.” Hobart is an intense competitor who many rated as an over-achiever, which may have been a misdirected backhand slap for a player who keeps showing more athletic ability than anybody expected.

–Measuring up: At 1/8th inch under 6-foot-4 inches and 307 pounds, Marpet put on a great show at the Indianapolis combine with the fastest 40-yard run of all offensive linemen (4.98 seconds; 10 in 1.71) and his 4.47 seconds in the short shuttle and 4.33 in the three-cone were second only to Oregon’s Jake Fisher. He added a vertical jump of 30.5 inches and a broad jump of 9 feet, just to demonstrate his explosion.

–Notable quote:”Usually during the season, I lose seven pounds. We did a BodPod test, which is a body fat test, and it showed that if I just laid in bed for 24 hours, I’d be wasting 3,500 calories. So, just sitting around, I need to eat 3,500 calories a day to maintain my body weight. When I’m exercising, I need 7,000-plus to maintain, and if I want to gain weight, I need 8-9,000 calories. That’s not easy.” — Marpet at combine, explaining how attention to detail includes eating for a big athlete.

–Frankly: Marpet said he had more trouble with new nomenclature than he did Division I athletes at Senior Bowl, which may be a hint that this big guy is ready for the big time. Given time to digest somebody’s playbook, Marpet could become a surprise star out of this draft.

5/83. Arie Kouandjio, Alabama, 6-5, 310, 5.43, 3

–Oh, Brother: A redshirt senior, Kouandjio is the older brother of Buffalo Bills’ second round pick (No. 44 overall) Cyrus Kouandjio. They formed the left side of Alabama’s offensive line in 2013. Like his brother, Arie looks the part of an early round draft pick, with broad shoulders, long arms and tree trunks for legs. He flashes impressive initial quickness. Kouandjio can maul opponents in the running game. Also like his brother, Arie has technical flaws and, perhaps most important, medical questions (missed 2011 season after knee injury and had multiple surgeries on each knee). Kouandjio relies on his initial punch to knock defenders off balance and doesn’t keep his feet moving, too often failing to latch on and keep his feet shuffling to truly mirror opponents. Further, he missed virtually all of the 2011 season with a knee injury. He played 10 games in 2012 and became a starter in 2013.

–Measuring up: At Indianapolis combine, Kouandjio exacerbated concerns about his knees when he opted not to work out, but measured 6-foot-4 3/4 inches, 310 pounds with a huge wingspan (84 3/8th inches) and hands (10 7/8th inches). At his March 11 pro day ran 40 yards in 5.47 and 5.46 seconds, had a 25-inch vertical jump and 8-foot-4 inch broad jump.

–Notable quote: “My knees are very strong. I just let (NFL teams) know that. Dr. Cain up in Birmingham, Dr. Lyle Cain, did a great job … and it’s been good.” — Kouandjio at his pro day, trying to calm concerns about his knees.

–Frankly: If and when to pick this big blocker should be determined mostly by the medical staff. When healthy he certainly shows NFL ability.

6/97. John Miller, Louisville, 6-2, 303, 5.24, 3

–Go East-West, young man: Despite gaining a national reputation at Miami’s Central High School as a ferocious blocker and playing extremely well at Louisville his entire career, Miller was seldom mentioned as a pro prospect until this year. Slighted by the Senior Bowl, Miller went to the East-West Shrine Game and received rave reviews in practice and in the game. He was especially impressive as a trap blocker and getting to the next level. That sent scouts scurrying back to films of those 47 games he started at Louisville. His excellent technique and efficiency of movement more than compensated for his lack of elite athletic ability.

–Measuring up: Except for 29 reps on the bench with 225 pounds, Miller’s combine results were average with a 40 yard time of 5.33 seconds (10 in 1.84), a vertical jump of 27 inches, broad jump of 8-feet-8 inches and a decent shuttle (4.75 seconds). He is a bit short, at exactly 6-feet-1/2 inch with a wing span of 81 inches and hands at 10 1/4 inches.

–Notable quote: “Miller has the relative low center of gravity and thick base that scouts look for in interior lineman and has long enough arms (33″). In pass protection, he showed balance and reasonably light feet to mirror, as well as strong hands to latch and control.” — NFLDraftScout.com’s Rob Rang on Miller’s East-West game performance.

–Frankly: OK, the secret is out and Miller should be worth a third round pick for a team looking for a reliable, blue collar interior lineman.

Also:

7/120. Josue Matias, Florida State, 6-5, 309, 5.52, 3-4

8/133. Mitch Morse, Missouri, 6-5, 305, 5.14, 4

9/152. Jamil Douglas, Arizona State, 6-4, 304, 5.18, 4-5

10/178. Robert Myers, Tennessee State, 6-5, 326, 5.37, 5-6

11/185. *Jeremiah Poutasi, Utah, 6-5, 335, 5.32, 5-6

12/207. Ben Beckwith, Mississippi State, 6-4, 317, 5.24, 6

13/232. Adam Shead, Oklahoma, 6-4, 338, 5.71, 6-7

14/240. Miles Dieffenbach, Penn State, 6-3, 305, 5.29, 7

15/253. Jon Feliciano, Miami (FL), 6-4, 323, 5.33, 7

16/273. Jarvis Harrison, Texas AM, 6-4, 330, 5.18, 7-FA

17/292. Mark Glowinski, West Virginia, 6-4, 307, 5.17, 7-FA

18/306. Tayo Fabuluje, Texas Christian, 6-6, 353, 5.53, 7-FA

19/326. Al Bond, Memphis, 6-4, 303, 5.54, 7-FA

20/348. Matt Rotheram, Pittsburgh, 6-5, 339, 5.53, 7-FA

CENTERS

1/25. Cameron Erving, Florida State, 6-5, 313, 5.09, 1

–Center of attention: A two-time winner of the ACC’s Jacobs Blocking Trophy — first at left tackle, then at center. Erving expands the definition of versatility. After redshirting in 2010 with back problems, Erving played as defensive lineman in 2011. Ervin found his calling in the spring of 2012 when he was moved to offensive tackle because the team needed somebody to protect quarterback EJ Manuel’s blind side, which Erving did surprisingly well. After earning numerous honors in 2013 protecting quarterback Jameis Winston, Erving considered the draft but returned for one more season, and one more position. He was needed as a center when starter Austin Barron broke his arm October 4 against Wake Forest. Erving was a key in the November comeback victory over Miami.

Measuring up: Fully equipped to play anywhere along the offensive line, a bit tall for a center at exactly 6-foot-5 1/2 inches, 313 pounds with a large wingspan (84 1/8th inches) and big hands (10 3/4 inches). He ran 40 yards in 5.15 seconds (10 in 1.87), benched 225 pounds 30 times and had a vertical jump of 30.5 inches.

–Notable quote: “Honestly when I made the switch a lot of people asked me how I felt about it in terms of the NFL. That wasn’t on my mind. I mean, I’ve always been the type of person that does what’s best for the team. When I moved from defense (after freshman season) that was what was best for the team. As far as moving from tackle to center it’s what the team needed at the time. So I did it.” — Erving at the combine, talking about his move from left tackle to center last year and insisting he doesn’t care what position he plays.

–Frankly: Quick, draft Erving and then worry about the details, like what position he plays.

2/59. Hroniss Grasu, Oregon, 6-3, 297, 5.12, 2

–Romanian Ruler: Grasu is a highly-respected, go-to leader on Oregon offensive line whose sage advice is sought and heeded. He is the son of parents who emigrated from Romania to escape that country’s infamous austerity policy in the 1970s-80s. Grasu cherished his grandfather, known as Papu, who died eight years ago, for his character, work ethic and an approach to life sets him apart. Grasu’s athleticism is also genetic; his mother a star goalie for the Romanian handball team and his father a stunt man specializing in dangerous horsemanship. After showing his own exceptional athletic ability while starting 50 games, Grasu injured his leg last November and missed three contests but returned to play in Rose Bowl win over Florida (59-20), then the National Championship loss to Ohio State (42-40). Grasu uses agility, awareness and quick feet to compensate for the lack of raw power.

Measuring up: Grasu weighed in at 297 pounds and was exactly 6-foot-3 inches with short arms (32 1/8th inches), narrow wing span (77 1/2 inches) but average hands (10 1/4 inches) at combine. But he was still rehabbing from injury and could not work out. At his March 12 pro day, Grasu showed his speed (40 yards in 5.01 seconds) and agility (short shuttle in 4.20 seconds, 3-cone in 7.84 seconds). In spring workouts he benched 400 pounds and had vertical jump of 27 inches.

–Notable quote: “I think of what they must have gone through, and it makes me appreciate them even more. Everything I do is to put a smile on their face and to show how much I appreciate them.” — Grasu, discussing his family’s dangerous escape from oppressive life in Romania.

–Frankly: The medics need to weigh in on the long-term stability of Grasu’s leg, but when he was healthy, that fast, fluid athletic ability was obvious. Mature beyond his years, this is the kind of leader every team wants in the locker room.

3/77. Reese Dismukes, Auburn, 6-3, 296, 5.30, 2-3

–Weighting results: Listed as the nation’s top center prospect coming out of Spanish Fort High School in Alabama, Dismukes (pronounced ‘dis-myooks’) lived up to those rave notices at Auburn despite a notable lack of size and almost jumped into the 2014 NFL draft. He returned to improve his technique, but he still had trouble coping with powerful nose tackles, which scouts still noted at the Senior Bowl workouts. But he definitely has the drive and ability to fit into the right offense. Dismukes was suspended at the beginning of his sophomore season in 2012 after an arrest for public intoxication.

Measuring up: This is the root of Dismukes’ challenge, a lack of size in a big man’s position. His strength and speed are also below average. At the combine, he was the lightest offensive lineman at 296 pounds. At 6-foot-2 3/4 inches his height is acceptable, but he needs to work hard to overcome short arms (32 1/4 inches) and very small hands (8 7/8 inches). His speed is also average (40 yards in 5.31 seconds; 10 in only 1.91). Dismukes managed 23 reps on the bench with 225 pounds.

–Notable quote: “Dismukes is strong enough to drive defenders off the ball but is best suited to a zone-blocking scheme where he can fully take advantage of his efficient movement to turn and seal defenders from the action.” — Rob Rang, NFLDraftScout.com’s senior analyst.

–Frankly: Dismukes is not a fit for just any team. Although he held his own in a tough conference, Dismukes needs to be drafted by a team that is looking for an alert technician rather than a brutish blocker.

Also:

4/109. B.J. Finney, Kansas State, 6-4, 318, 5.25, 3-4

5/146. Andy Gallik, Boston College, 6-2, 306, 5.43, 4-5

6/173. Shaquille Mason, Georgia Tech, 6-2, 310, 5.27, 5

7/226. Greg Mancz, Toledo, 6-4, 301, 5.08, 6-7

8/274. Shane McDermott, Miami (FL), 6-4, 302, 5.21, 7-FA

9/296. Dillon Day, Mississippi State, 6-4, 305, 5.26, 7-FA

10/323. David Andrews, Georgia, 6-3, 294, 5.12, 7-FA

11/338. Brandon Vitabile, Northwestern (IL), 6-2, 304, 5.20, 7-FA

–Frank Cooney, founder and publisher of The Sports Xchange and NFLDraftScout.com, is in his 50th year covering football and is a selector for the Pro Football Hall of Fame.