John Michael Schmitz

A burly center with guard type power, Schmitz brings a compete level to the field that jumps out from the trenches. He’s started for three years, putting out high end tape where he improved season after season during that stretch.

When you turn on the film, you’ll notice right away how active JMS is pre-snap. He identifies threatening defenders and makes protection calls for the offense. He has good grip strength and a base that is hard to push back. He maximizes his lower half with proper hand placement and timing.

One question in pass pro when adjusting to the next level will be overall foot speed. Twitched up pass rushers at the next level will test his quickness more often.

He did a great job in the zone running game in college, but still plays with inconsistent balance when asked to pull or climb. He can fall into a habit of leaning into his second level target, rather than gaining full leverage.

In terms of attitude and demeanor, it’s hard to find a player in the draft that matches JMS. He consistently gives max effort and wears out the opponent quarter after quarter. He can get under the opposition’s skin by blocking through the whistle or driving them to the turf with all of his weight.

He has athletic limitations (notably his 1.85 ten yard split, 26th percentile) but compensates with awareness, pre-snap IQ and overall toughness. I love the snarl he’ll bring up front and he should be an above average starter for a long time.