Pat Elflein (Ohio St.) - 2017 NFL Draft Pick #70 by MIN
What The Experts Thought Before The Draft
Pre-Draft Analysis for Pat Elflein - 2017 NFL Draft
Player Profile:
- Name: Pat Elflein
- College: Ohio State
- Position: Center/Offensive Guard
- Height: 6'3"
- Weight: 303 lbs
Strengths:
- Versatility: Elflein showcased the ability to play both center and guard positions, making him a valuable asset for any offensive line.
- Intelligence: He exhibited strong football IQ, demonstrating an ability to read defenses and make quick decisions at the line of scrimmage.
- Technical Skills: Elflein displayed solid hand placement and footwork, allowing him to anchor effectively against defensive linemen.
- Leadership: As a team captain at Ohio State, he showed strong leadership qualities and was respected by teammates and coaches alike.
Weaknesses:
- Length: Some evaluators noted that his arm length could be a concern against longer defensive linemen in the NFL.
- Raw Power: While he had good technique, he occasionally struggled to generate enough push in short-yardage situations.
Overall Projection:
- Elflein was projected to be selected in the 2nd to 3rd round of the 2017 NFL Draft, with the potential to start as a rookie given his experience and skill set.
- Teams looking for a reliable interior offensive lineman who could contribute immediately were particularly interested in Elflein's abilities.
Conclusion:
Pat Elflein was viewed as a well-rounded offensive lineman with the potential to develop into a quality starter in the NFL. His combination of versatility, intelligence, and leadership made him an appealing choice for teams looking to bolster their offensive line in the 2017 draft.