In the fast-paced world of football, the spotlight often falls on flashy quarterbacks, elusive running backs, and agile wide receivers. However, behind the scenes, a group of hulking giants silently execute their duties with precision and power, securing the foundation of every play. These unsung heroes are the interior offensive linemen in the NFL, the brawlers who hold the key to a team’s success in the trenches. The 2023 NFL draft class boasts an impressive lineup of interior blockers, showcasing not only their exceptional skills but also their reliability on the field. While they might not be the talk of the town for casual fans, scouts recognize their crucial role in shaping a team’s fortunes.
5 Interior Offensive Linemen in the NFL
Peter Skoronski:
Having earned the title of a unanimous All-American tackle in 2022, Skoronski transitions to the interior offensive line in 2023. Some have raised concerns about his arm length and girth, suggesting a move to center or guard. However, his tape speaks for itself, showcasing an impressive skill set. Polished, intelligent, and athletically gifted, Skoronski possesses exceptional handwork, impeccable weight distribution, and the versatility to excel in multiple positions. As a top pick, he is expected to be a standout lineman right from the start.
O’Cyrus Torrence:
After thriving in the SEC following a successful stint at Louisiana, Torrence has made a name for himself as one of the best-run blockers in the class. While not the most nimble guard, his sheer force on the field makes up for it. Torrence effortlessly locks defenders out, asserting his dominance and driving them off the ball with ease. His aggressive playing style and squatty size contribute to some overpowering moments on film.
John Michael Schmitz:
Although Schmitz’s age and position might undermine his value for some, his abilities on the field are beyond question. As a cerebral center, he boasts excellent communication skills, guiding the offensive line with precision. In the run game, Schmitz’s spatial awareness allows him to create lanes for the ball carrier, while his pass protection remains impeccable.
Cody Mauch:
A standout tackle during his time at North Dakota State, Mauch is expected to transition to an interior role in the NFL. As a converted tight end, his athleticism and body control set him apart from other linemen. While still refining his pad level and hand placement, Mauch’s raw strength and aggressive demeanor make him a captivating player to watch. His potential to excel at guard or center is immense.
Joe Tippmann:
Tippmann’s meteoric rise up draft boards comes as no surprise, considering his impressive skill set. A taller center with excellent length for his position, Tippmann’s agility and lateral quickness stand out when blocking on the move. While he has room for improvement in spatial awareness and pad level, his high ceiling promises a bright future in the NFL.
The 2023 class of interior offensive linemen in the NFL showcases not only raw power and strength but also finesse, intelligence, and adaptability. These unsung heroes in the trenches play a vital role in shaping the outcome of every play. As they silently execute their duties, fans and scouts alike recognize the crucial contributions they make to their teams’ success.