The frontman for Oregon’s 2023 unstoppable offense was center Jackson Powers-Johnson. With an incredibly impressive final season with the Ducks and a powerful performance at the Senior Bowl, he has set his stock extremely high heading into the 2024 NFL Draft.
Not many Centers are often worth a first round selection
— PFF College (@PFF_College) February 19, 2024
Jackson Powers-Johnson is absolutely one of them🦆 pic.twitter.com/9UwYE30yYJ
While many talented offensive linemen are entering the draft this postseason, I would argue that Powers-Johnson is the highest-graded center and well worth a first-round pick.
Powers-Johnson Draft Profile
The Oregon offensive line allowed just 5 sacks throughout all of last season and Powers-Johnson was an integral part of the line’s success.
Repeatedly rated as the No. 1 pass-blocking line and No. 1 run-blocking line in the nation throughout the year, he led the offensive unit to continued success.
At 6-foot-3 and 320 pounds, is a brick wall and will go on to have an incredible NFL career.
Strengths
With his wide frame and incredible power, Powers-Johnson consistently exhibits the explosive play that’s necessary to excel in the league. His quick-twitch movements help him to excel in both zone and gap schemes.
Powers-Johnson can clear just about any pocket in the world. He continually provided additional time for quarterback Bo Nix to develop plays and often found himself flattening defensive players in front of him.
His brawn and physical playing style allow him to uproot players on the other side of the snap.
He is a genuine leader on and off the field. With a mature mindset during games, Powers-Johnson sets the tone from the moment he steps onto the field and repeatedly enforces his will on his opponents.
Weaknesses
Scouts and coaches have seen that Powers-Johnson has a slight issue maintaining his balance. With a wide stance and hand placement, he often opens himself up to hits at the chest area leading to a need for resetting.
With slightly grabby hands, Powers-Johnson tends to be called for holding. If he can work on minimizing this issue, he will further improve his draft stock.