Travis Swanson, Senior, Center, Arkansas
Overview:
Swanson has been a picture of consistency for the Razorbacks over the course of his career. He has started all 38 games of his career. He has snapped for such quarterbacks as Tyler Wilson and former star Ryan Mallett. At 6’5” and 305 lbs., he is a mauler up front. Few sacks have been allowed up the middle throughout Swanson’s career. He is already projected by Athlon Sports to be a first team All-SEC player. Swanson has been in the discussion for the Rimington Trophy (nation’s top center) for the last couple of seasons, but he has not garnered any votes to become a finalist. The 2013 season appears to be his best opportunity to take home the award.
Final Projection:
Generally considered the top center in the upcoming NFL draft, Swanson will have an interesting weekend next May. He runs fairly quickly so far for a big man (5.29 40-yard dash), but obviously things change between the season and the draft process. Swanson could come in and compete for a spot right away at the next level. The best NFL quarterbacks usually have good offensive lines in front of them. General Managers put a premium on the beef up front. Based on where Travis Frederick went last year (late first round), Swanson could have his name called late on Day 1.
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