NCAA Scouting – Player Profile: Jonathan Luigs, C, Arkansas by Jody Jamieson 21/2/2009
In another year, Jonathan Luigs would be the top center in the Draft by a mile. This year unfortunately for him, he’s stuck behind Alex Mack and Max Unger, two of the best centers in a long time, which will hurt his stock to a certain extent. Not many centers though can say they blocked for two running backs who became first round picks in the same Draft. In 2007, Luigs was recognised as the best center in the country, being awarded the coveted Rimmington Trophy. Darren McFadden (4th overall to Oakland) and Felix Jones (22nd overall to Dallas) ran wild behind him. The Razorbacks were one of the most impressive running teams in the country in 07, rushing for 286 yards a game.
Luigs was a redshirt in 2004 before going on to be a 4 year starter for the Razorbacks, starting his last 46 games. He was a third team All-American in 2006, and was a second teamer in 2007 while being recognised in the All-SEC team in every season he played. He comes in with an excellent pedigree.
What we like about Luigs
Has a big frame for a center and impressive athleticism. Absolute stud in the running game. When running backs are going up the middle, Luigs is fantastic at driving DT’s sideways and clearing a path. Loads of experience. Good pass protector, and is also very good in space. When he gets to the second level, he doesn’t get lost and blocks anything and everything that gets in his way.
Question marks about Luigs
The only reason I don’t have him rated higher than Max Unger is he isn’t as strong as Unger. Both have a similar skill set, but Unger is definitely stronger. Luigs needs to get stronger as he can be overwhelmed at the point of attack by big DT’s, specifically huge nose tackles.
Highlight of his college career
Luigs was 0-2 in Bowl games, but in 2007 the team had a good season, finishing 8-5 behind one of the top rushing teams in the nation.
Other snippets
6′ 3″ and weighed in at 302 lbs at the Senior Bowl. Won the Rimmington Trophy in 2007. He was also a finalist in 2006 and 2008. The earliest he can possibly go is #42 to Buffalo. Is more likely to go somewhere between #50-#70. Minnesota, Arizona and and Kansas City may be potential landing spots.
NCAA Scouting – Player Profile:
Luigs was a redshirt in 2004 before going on to be a 4 year starter for the Razorbacks, starting his last 46 games. He was a third team All-American in 2006, and was a second teamer in 2007 while being recognised in the All-SEC team in every season he played. He comes in with an excellent pedigree.
