NFL Draft Profiles: Interior Offensive Linemen Kansas City May Consider
By Ben Nielsen
Oct 27, 2012; Little Rock, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorback quarterback Tyler Wilson (8) makes a pass as center Travis Swanson (64) blocks Ole Miss Rebels defensive tackle Gilbert Pena (99) during the second half at War Memorial Stadium. Ole Miss defeated Arkansas 30-27. Mandatory Credit: Beth Hall-USA TODAY Sports
TRAVIS SWANSON (CENTER)
HEIGHT: 6-5 WEIGHT: 312 COLLEGE: Arkansas
10 YARD SPLIT: 1.72 BENCH: 25 BROAD: 7’11”
Travis Swanson is a primary center who is said to have more than ample ability to switch to guard in the NFL. However, some have Swanson as the draft’s best center prospect, so drafting him could lead to a change of position for either Rodney Hudson or Eric Kush.
Reports suggest Swanson was strong during his time at the Senior Bowl, and impressed during one-on-one drills. The combination of his size, strength, and athletic ability could be appealing to the Chiefs considering how often they like to move their offensive linemen around.
Pundits suggest he could start in the NFL quickly.
Here’s Rob Rang take on him:
"Has the athleticism to pull in the running game. Able to seal off defenders from the action when blocking straight ahead. Can anchor well against strong run defenders. Good explosiveness to deliver his snaps and awareness in making line calls."
Projections have Swanson as a third round pick, but fit could force him to the fourth round. Depending on how Dorsey evaluates the interior linemen class and what’s available at the end of the third round, Swanson could be a potential pick for Kansas City on the second day of the draft.