Top 5 Center Prospects for 2026 NFL Draft

Ahead of the upcoming NFL Scouting Combine, a look at the top center prospects entering the draft.

Feb. 25, 2026 at 7:23pm

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Ahead of the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine, draft analysts have ranked the top prospects at every position, including the top center prospects. Offensive linemen will arrive in Indianapolis on Thursday to conduct interviews with teams and participate in medical exams, with workouts beginning on Sunday, March 1, following media availability on Saturday, Feb. 28. The top five center prospects entering the combine are outlined below.

Why it matters

The center position is crucial for any NFL offense, responsible for anchoring the offensive line and making pre-snap reads and adjustments. These top center prospects will be closely evaluated by teams looking to bolster their interior offensive line in the 2026 NFL Draft.

The details

The top five center prospects are: 1) Connor Lew from Auburn, a technician and natural leader who started 25 consecutive games before an ACL injury in October 2025; 2) Brian Parker II from Duke, who transitioned from tackle to center and is a polished blocker with easy movement; 3) Jake Slaughter from Florida, a multi-year starter and team captain with elite football IQ, refined technique and natural pass protection skills; 4) Logan Jones from Iowa, a very good athlete with movement skills to thrive in a zone-blocking scheme; and 5) Matt Gulbin from Michigan State, who is already 25 years old, is versatile with starts at guard and center, but is average athletically.

  • Offensive linemen will arrive in Indianapolis on Thursday to conduct interviews with teams and participate in medical exams.
  • Workouts will begin on Sunday, March 1, following media availability on Saturday, Feb. 28.

The players

Connor Lew

A center from Auburn who is a technician, natural leader and has pro-level awareness. He started 25 consecutive games before an ACL injury in October 2025.

Brian Parker II

A center from Duke who transitioned from tackle. He is a polished blocker with easy movement in all directions and has the mental acuity and technical precision to become a great pro.

Jake Slaughter

A center from Florida who is a multi-year starter and team captain with elite football IQ, refined technique and natural pass protection skills.

Logan Jones

A center from Iowa who is a very good athlete with movement skills to thrive in a zone-blocking scheme.

Matt Gulbin

A center from Michigan State who is already 25 years old, is versatile with starts at guard and center, but is average athletically.

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The takeaway

These top center prospects will be closely evaluated by NFL teams at the upcoming Scouting Combine as they look to bolster their interior offensive lines in the 2026 draft. Their ability to anchor the offensive line, make pre-snap reads, and provide pass protection will be key factors in determining their draft stock.