Last season, Iowa featured one of the most productive running games in the Big Ten, averaging 197 rushing yards per game. That was the program’s highest mark since 2002. A major reason for that success was the dominant play of All-Big Ten center Logan Jones. According to Pro Football Focus, Jones led all Power Four centers with an 83.6 run-blocking grade.
Beyond his standout 2024 season, Jones has been the anchor of Iowa’s offensive line for multiple years. He enters this fall with 38 career starts, and his experience is obvious on tape. His football IQ stands out, particularly in how he identifies and handles stunts and blitzes in pass protection. He didn’t allow a single sack and gave up only five pressures last season. Technically, he’s sound. His hand placement and footwork are both strong, contributing to the fact he was penalized just twice in 2024.
Why the Colts will love Logan Jones
Jones also brings impressive athleticism for the position. In Iowa’s zone-blocking scheme, he's frequently asked to execute difficult reach blocks and consistently delivers. He shows the ability to climb to the second level and take out linebackers, and that mobility translates in pass protection as well. He moves fluidly and mirrors defenders effectively.
The main concern scouts may have with Jones is his only adequate play strength. He can struggle against powerful nose tackles in head-up situations. However, he holds his own on combo blocks and against lighter interior defenders. Another potential knock is his arm length, which is below average. That said, this matters less for a center than it does for a tackle.
So, what kind of prospect is Logan Jones heading into the 2026 NFL Draft? I currently have a third-round grade on him and view him as Iowa’s top center prospect since Tyler Linderbaum, a two-time Pro Bowler. One team that could make sense for Jones is the Indianapolis Colts. They head into 2025 with 2024 fourth-rounder Tanor Bortolini at center. Bortolini surrendered seven pressures on just 211 pass-blocking snaps last year and earned a 65.4 grade from PFF, which is well below average. Jones would be a clear upgrade and a strong scheme fit.