Many draft experts consider Jackson Powers-Johnson the best true center prospect in the 2024 NFL Draft. Despite the growing impact of the position, it wasn’t enough to get the Oregon Duck on the board in the first round.
As fans turn their sights toward Day 2, Powers-Johnson remains one of the best available players, with plenty of teams seemingly interested in his services.
Update: Jackson Powers-Johnson was selected by the Las Vegas Raiders in the second round of the 2024 NFL Draft (No. 44 overall).
Why Did Jackson Powers-Johnson Fall to the Second Round?
When Duke’s own Graham Barton fell to the final seven picks of the first round, it appeared a forgone conclusion that Powers-Johnson could fall into the second round. That’s due in large part to circumstances outside the center’s control.
With six quarterbacks taken in the top 12 picks and no defensive players selected until the 15th overall slot, it pushed a lot of players with first-round grades outside of Day 1. Powers-Johnson just happens to be one of those players.
Despite the wait, it won’t be too long until the Oregon star offensive lineman hears his name called to kick off Day 2.
Powers-Johnson’s Scouting Report
Pro Football Network Draft Analyst Ian Cummings said Powers-Johnson is a top-50 prospect and the “best pure center” on the board.
However, that’s still not enough for PFN’s draft expert to give him a first-round grade.
MORE: Ian Cummings’ Full Scouting Report on Jackson Powers-Johnson
“Like most young players, Powers-Johnson still has room to improve — particularly with his leverage management working across-face and his timing in recovery on pass-protection reps,” Cummings writes. “But overall, he has the tools to be a high-level starter at center with built-in scheme versatility.”
Powers-Johnson is just 21 years old this season and one of the younger overall prospects in this class. It will be great news for whichever team picks him up because it shows he can be molded into a great NFL player.
Likely Landing Spots
Powers-Johnson is a difficult player to mock because so many offensive linemen have already been taken in the draft. The Oregon product is also a true center, so positional flexibility may not be there unlike many other prospects.
All those concerns being said, the Oregon star should still have plenty of interest tonight.
Dallas Cowboys
The Dallas Cowboys seem to be the favorite for Powers-Johnson for several reasons. First, even with the selection of Tyler Guyton in the first round, the team has an immediate need at center. Second, while there are other needs on the defensive side of the ball, the Cowboys could double down on the offensive line and get the group back to playing elite football.
Powers-Johnson may not be the sexy pick, but it would be the perfect fit for Dallas’ offense to get back on track.
Miami Dolphins
The Miami Dolphins‘ offensive line isn’t exactly what you would call dominant for a playoff team. Powers-Johnson is a natural center who can help anchor the entire offensive line in a major way. The Dolphins cannot go into the 2024 season with Aaron Brewer being their starting center.
KEEP READING: Best Remaining Prospects in the 2024 NFL Draft After Round 1
The Oregon standout would be strong enough to start right away for Miami.
Philadelphia Eagles
The Jason Kelce era has ended in Philadelphia, and while the team appears comfortable turning the keys to Cam Jurgens, you can never be too careful at such an important position now. Powers-Johnson is the kind of player who can anchor your offensive line and allow you to keep Jurgens at the right guard spot — a position the young Nebraska product did not do poorly in last season.
Powers-Johnson makes a lot of sense here.
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