Although centers tend to go lower than other positions, the 2023 NFL Draft class features a handful of solid prospects and even a few potential mid-round gems like Notre Dame C Jarrett Patterson. While most of the conversation has been focused on the top names in the class, what does Patterson’s scouting report suggest about his NFL draft stock?
Jarrett Patterson NFL Draft Profile
- Position: Center
- School: Notre Dame
- Year: Graduate Student/Senior
Those familiar with the Notre Dame program will be very accustomed to the name Jarrett Patterson as he’s been a staple name for quite some time now in NFL draft circles.
Patterson has four seasons for the Fighting Irish after redshirting initially during his true freshman season in 2018. Patterson entered college as the No. 368 ranked player nationally and the No. 25 offensive tackle in the nation as he made the trip from Mission Viejo, California, to South Bend, Indiana.
Patterson quickly moved in to play center, where he started all 13 games as a sophomore and did not allow a single sack on his 854 offensive snaps. At this point in his career, Patterson was lauded for his combination of size and athleticism at the center position.
MORE: 100% Free NFL Mock Draft Simulator
2020 and 2021 saw Patterson gain a reputation as one of the top centers in all of college football. During both seasons, Patterson was named a Phil Steele All-American member. As a senior in 2021, he was named a team captain and started all 13 games. He helped pave the way for a Fighting Irish offense that averaged over 426 yards per game and continued his incredible streak of not having allowed a sack in his entire career.
As a graduate in 2022, Patterson was shifted to left guard, starting and playing in 12 of the final 13 games after missing the season opener against Ohio State. Named the team’s Offensive Lineman of the Year, Patterson proved to be a dependable football player, even though some of the upside that was discussed early in his career has taken a backseat due to some injuries throughout his time in South Bend.
While Patterson is likely a more scheme-dependent interior offensive lineman, the body of work is impressive, and he’s not the type to get cheated on a single rep. Having attended the 2023 Senior Bowl in Mobile, what does the scouting report say for Patterson as he looks to become an anchor in the middle for an NFL roster?
Jarrett Patterson Scouting Report
Strengths: Four-year starter at both center and guard for Notre Dame. Tough, durable lineman who can play multiple positions on the interior. Sets with a wide base, sinks his butt, and bend his knees. Works to stays square, gets leverage on defenders, and quickly sets up in pass protection. Explosive at the point, effectively uses his hands, and holds his ground. Strong, gets movement run blocking, and seals defenders from plays. Displays outstanding vision, blocks with a nasty attitude, and works to finish off opponents.
Weaknesses: Stiff, not nimble, and ineffective blocking in motion. Overextends and is on the ground too much. Really doesn’t finish blocks.
Overall: As a sophomore at Notre Dame, Patterson looked as though he would be the next big-time blocking prospect to come from the Irish program. His game has leveled off since, but Patterson recuperated some of his draft stock after three solid days of Senior Bowl practice.
Patterson is an average athlete with short arms, yet he gets the most from his ability. He can be effective in a power-gap system or a scheme that does not require him to cover much ground.
Jarrett Patterson Combine Measurements and Results
- Height: 6’5″
- Weight: 306 pounds
- Wingspan: 76 3/4″
- Arm Length: 31 3/8″
- Hand Size: 10″
- Bench Press: 22
- 40-Yard Dash: 5.33
- Broad Jump: 8’10”
- Vertical Jump: 29.5″
- Three Cone: 7.96
Notre Dame C Jarrett Patterson Current Draft Projection
Although Patterson isn’t exactly what you categorize as a difference-making player, you can find gems at every round of the draft. Also working against Patterson is the fact centers typically aren’t drafted very high in the NFL draft.
Last season, Iowa’s Tyler Linderbaum (No. 25) was the only center to go inside the top 50, with Cam Jurgens falling just outside at pick 51, followed by Luke Fortner at pick 65. In fact, there were just six centers drafted during the 2022 NFL Draft, which was the lowest number since 2013.
MORE: When Is the 2023 NFL Draft?
While it might take a couple of rounds, Patterson will assuredly hear his name called during the 2023 NFL Draft. Currently, Patterson is ranked No. 150 overall on Tony Pauline’s Big Board and is the fifth-ranked player at his position, with a 3.45 grade and a draft projection in Round 5.
If Patterson lands on a team that has a knack for developing consistently high-performing offensive lines, nothing is stopping Patterson from becoming a staple in the NFL.