Rd 2: John Michael Schmitz | Pos – Center | School – Minnesota
The New York Giants fianlly anchored the Offensive line with highest ranked and most productive Center in college football. In the 2nd Round GM Joe Shoen draft John Michael Schmitz out of Minnesota. Schmitz rolls in at 6’4″ 300 pounds and is known for his excellent technique and power.
Schmitz was groomed to be the the man middle for Minnesota playing 10 games at Center in 2019 and 2020; However, JMS played in every game for the next two seasons anchoring Gophers line with 25 starts. The gophers rushing offensive in 2022 avergaed over 200 yards per game.
Out of High School in the state of Illinois, Scout Rivals ranked him as a center and had him as the No. 1 center in the Midwest, the No. 8 center in the nation and the No. 96 recruit in the Midwest.
Schmitz will have competetion at the position as the Giants has no plans on handing any rookie the position. Bredeson, Anderson and even Lemiuex will all be looking to win a roster spot at Center or Guard.
Senior Bowl
Schmitz impressed at the Senior Bowl as there was some question on his over all athletic ability; however that sentiment quickly disappeared as coaches got to see the big man up close.
Technique
In the run game, JMS has no problem making his block, getting to the second level and up on a crashing linebacker. There is no doubt that Saquon Barkley will love running behind Schmitz as he moves vertical well for a big man. In the pass game he has the ability to keep his head on swivel, allowing himself to help out inside with a chip or stab with an inside hand.
#60 was the last great center The New York Giants have had. Perhaps it’s a sign.