Michigan State's Matt Gulbin Emerges as Top Center Prospect for 2026 NFL Draft

The versatile offensive lineman could be a perfect fit for the Cleveland Browns' power-based offense.

Apr. 3, 2026 at 4:10pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A fractured, geometric painting depicting the overlapping movements and perspectives of an offensive line, conveying the technical complexity and physicality of the center position.A cubist interpretation of the offensive line, highlighting the power and technical precision required of top NFL center prospects like Michigan State's Matt Gulbin.Cleveland Today

Michigan State center Matt Gulbin has emerged as one of the top center prospects in the 2026 NFL Draft. At 6'4" and 305 pounds, Gulbin has impressed scouts with his strength, power, and ability to climb to linebackers in the run game. After being named the top-graded center in the FBS in 2025, Gulbin could be an ideal target for the Cleveland Browns, who are looking to bolster their offensive line and transition to a more power-based rushing attack under new offensive coordinator Todd Monken.

Why it matters

The Browns' current starting center, Elgton Jenkins, is expected to move to guard full-time in 2026, leaving a hole in the middle of the offensive line. Gulbin's skill set as a powerful, run-blocking center makes him a potential scheme fit for Monken's offense, and he could step in as an immediate starter for the Browns.

The details

Gulbin started 11 games at center for Michigan State in 2025, earning a reputation as one of the top centers in college football. He excels at climbing to linebackers and using his strength to displace defenders in the run game, although he can sometimes struggle with lateral quickness. Gulbin's short arms are a potential concern, but his consistent body of work suggests he has the potential to be a starting center in the NFL.

  • Gulbin started 11 games at center for Michigan State in 2025.
  • He was voted team captain and graded out as the No. 1 center in the FBS in 2025.

The players

Matt Gulbin

A 6'4", 305-pound center from Michigan State who has emerged as one of the top center prospects in the 2026 NFL Draft.

Todd Monken

The new offensive coordinator for the Cleveland Browns, who is expected to transition the team's offense to a more power-based rushing attack.

Elgton Jenkins

The Browns' current starting center, who is expected to move to guard full-time in 2026.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The Browns will likely closely evaluate Gulbin during the pre-draft process, as he could be a prime target for them in the third or fourth round of the 2026 NFL Draft.

The takeaway

Gulbin's combination of strength, power, and scheme fit make him an intriguing prospect for the Browns, who are looking to bolster their offensive line and transition to a more physical, run-focused offense under new coordinator Todd Monken.