5 interior offensive-line prospects the Arizona Cardinals should watch

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ARLINGTON, TX – SEPTEMBER 24: Trevor Knight #8 of the Texas A&M Aggies celebrates his touchdown with Erik McCoy #64 against the Arkansas Razorbacks in the second quarter at AT&T Stadium on September 24, 2016 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images) /

Erik McCoy, Texas A&M

Another center/guard hybrid on this list, Erik Mccoy out of Texas A&M is currently listed at center but has the game to play anywhere across the interior line. His Pro Football Focus overall grade of 72.6 is one of the best out of centers in the 2019 draft.

McCoy is known as one of the best interior pass protectors in this draft. He allowed just one bull rush pressure in 506 snaps, which is good for fifth amongst centers per PFF, while his 99.3 pass-blocking efficiency grade ranks seventh. His elite grades could be due to his excellence as a screen blocker and low pad-level that allows him to gain leverage against pass-rushers.

However, McCoy does have some noticeable knocks. While he can anchor in pass protection and in a zone blocking scheme, he isn’t a guard that will win off of power. He’s simply not a mauler, nor is he a great athlete. His short reach will also be a disadvantage in the NFL.

But, he is only 21 years old. He’s only allowed one sack, six quarterback hits, and 12 quarterback hurries in 1,441 pass-blocking snaps, per PFF. Because of young age and history of excellent pass protection, McCoy could be a good target in either the third or fourth round.

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