Texas A & M has fielded some of the most prolific offenses in the country under Kevin Sumlin. The Aggies offense, despite being predicated on quarterback play, centers around the performance of its offensive line.
Center Mike Matthews is the leader of that O-Line unit. Matthews, the son of NFL Hall of Famer Bruce Matthews and brother of Falcons lineman Jake Matthews, has started every game (with the exception of games he was injured) since 2013.
It isn’t often that a sophomore is named starting center, considering the position has so many intricacies. Nonetheless, Matthews had an impressive collegiate career.
Measurables
Height: 6-2
Weight: 294 lbs.
40-yard dash: 5.16 seconds
Strengths
Mike Matthews enters the draft as one of the most experienced centers available. His position requires intelligence, strong communication and quick movement. The former Aggie posses all of these important traits.
Considering his team ran an up-tempo spread offense, Matthews is mobile for his position and is able to block in multiple capacities.
The above video shows Matthews’ facing a formidable Arizona State defensive line. He shows off his abilities throughout the video but in the first play, you can see how well he can stay on blocks. Often times when the quarterback roles out of the pocket, linemen will take a break. Matthews does not do that.
He can run and pass block very well and can call out blitzes.
Weaknesses
Matthews’ most glaring weakness is his size. He is under 300 pounds, which could allow NFL linemen to push him around. With increased size comes increased strength, which will certainly help him at the next level.
He also struggled against Alabama multiple times. The Crimson Tide provided the closest defensive line to an NFL team that Matthews faced, so it is a little concerning to see that happen.
Outlook
Coming from such a dominant football background, Matthews has a bright future in the NFL. While he will most likely end up as a UDFA, expect him to develop into a starting lineman a few years into his career.