2018 NFL Draft: Arkansas center Frank Ragnow could be safest Day 2 pick
Starting caliber offensive lineman don’t grow on trees, making the high floor of Arkansas center Frank Ragnow extremely enticing at the 2018 NFL Draft.
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A four-year grinder in the SEC trenches, Frank Ragnow has starting experience at guard and center, and played both positions extremely well. Ragnow was named to the watch lists for the Rimington Trophy and Outland Trophy entering his senior season. Following the conclusion of his final year, he was named to the Pro Football Focus All-America first team.
Ragnow was a leader for the Razorbacks throughout college and will be an asset in the locker room in the NFL. A hard worker known for his toughness, Ragnow played through the 2016 season following the loss of his dad to a heart attack. Will the physical and mental fortutide help him earn a Day 1 or Day 2 NFL Draft selection?
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Strengths
Ragnow has the requisite size to play offensive line in the NFL. He stands 6-foot-5 and weighs 309 pounds. His 26 reps on the bench at the NFL Combine won’t wow anyone, but whatever he might lack in strength he makes up for with crisp technique and intelligence. Rarely does he find himself in a bad position.
His experience playing multiple positions won’t be overlooked. Versatility is more important than ever in an ever changing league. Ragnow can slide up and down the line and fill more than just one position. Whether he’s drafted at center or guard, he’ll have more than one chance to get on the field immediately.
Weaknesses
Ragnow ended his senior season with an ankle injury. It shouldn’t hamper him significantly moving forward, but its a reason for teams not to rush to draft him in Round 2. What will hold in back the most however will be his limited athleticism. His quickness and strength are both average, not elite. Ragnow’s ceiling won’t be as high as some of the other interior offensive lineman in the draft like Quenton Nelson or Billy Price.
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Draft expectations
Ragnow checks every box. He’s not as freakishly athletic, but he’s a grinder in the true sense of the work. He’s always going to show up to work and play hard. His floor is as high as any other Day 2 pick, making Ragnow one of the most intriguing prospects in the draft.