2020 NFL Draft: Michigan IOL Ben Bredeson scouting report
Ben Bredeson is one of my favorite later-round prospects in the 2020 NFL Draft class. Let’s dig into his game.
We know that the 2020 NFL Draft class is loaded at the offensive tackle position. There are four players at the position who could legitimately go in the top ten. That being said, the interior offensive line does lack impact talent at the top of the class. Guys like Cesar Ruiz, Lloyd Cushenberry III and Jonah Jackson have gotten some buzz, but they are all fringe first-round guys at best.
While the interior offensive line class is not exactly loaded, there is a bit of depth at the position and potential value selections late in the 2020 NFL Draft. Ben Bredeson is one specific player who stands out. Bredeson sat out the combine testing with a hamstring injury so his evaluation is a bit more difficult. That being said, there is plenty on his tape worth getting excited about.
Height: 6-foot-5
Weight: 315 pounds
Bredeson was a four-year starter at Michigan, starting 46 out of a possible 51 games at left guard throughout his career. He was a stable force in the middle of the Michigan offensive line throughout his career and was a two-time captain for the team. Bredeson was also a first-team All-Big Ten selection and second-team All-American in 2019.
With a wide and powerful frame, Bredeson is built like a prototypical NFL offensive guard. He is extremely powerful at the point of attack and shows impressive pad level and leg drive to sustain the block. Bredeson is a legitimate mauler in the run game who can absolutely dominate at the line of scrimmage.
He does lack ideal quickness but moves well enough to get out in space and make plays at the second level. Bredeson is not the most athletic offensive lineman but he can still move around at an adequate level.
Bredeson also shows some good upside as a pass protector. He shows impressive on-field awareness as a pass blocker, understanding his responsibility and how to take care of blitz situations. When an immediate threat is not present, Bredeson does a great job of looking for and finding work. He also shows quick hands and impressive balance in his pass sets.
Overall, Bredeson is a big and powerful offensive lineman who anchors at a high level and can clear out lanes in the run game. He is undoubtedly best suited for a gap scheme at the next level and has plenty of upside if he is used correctly. I like Ben Bredeson as a high floor interior offensive line prospect who could bring plenty of value as a day three selection in the 2020 NFL Draft.