2021 NFL Draft center rankings: Three-way race for top spot

3. Landon Dickerson, Alabama
6-foot-6, 325 pounds
2021 NFL Draft grade: Fourth round

If it were not for injuries, Landon Dickerson would have a much higher draft grade. Unfortunately, though Dickerson has seen four of his five seasons end early due to injury. This long injury history will make it very hard for a team to take him before the third day of the 2021 NFL Draft.

When in the lineup though Dickerson has been outstanding. He won the Rimington award in 2020 and was named to the All-SEC second team in 2019. As a prospect, he is a strong run blocker who tends to win with his impressive strength. He also is a very smart player who should have no trouble picking up an NFL offense. One other positive with him is his versatility as he has played every position on the offensive line in college and should be able to play either guard or center in the NFL.

4. Drake Jackson, Kentucky
6-foot-2, 290 pounds
2021 NFL Draft grade: Fourth round

One of the more athletic centers in the 2021 NFL Draft is Kentucky’s, Drake Johnson. Johnson shows a nice burst off the ball and can easily get to the second level. He is a strong run blocker which is one of the reasons he was named First-Team All-SEC in 2019 and to the second team this past season. He also shows nice hand placement as a blocker which will help him significantly in the NFL.

While Jackson is one of the more athletic centers in this draft class, he is also one of the lightest players coming in at only 290 pounds. This lack of bulk hurts him when it comes to overall strength since he will not overpower many people. However, his good pad level and how well he uses his hands helps him in this area. Another issue with him is he just viewed as a center prospect by most teams and not someone who can play both guard and center.