Zeke Correll, IOL, NC State
Size:
Height: 6’3” (v) | Weight: 300 lbs (v)
Accomplishments:
Joe Moore Award semifinalist (2023)
“Zeke Correll may lack an elite athletic profile and fundamental strength, but his G/C versatility could make him a valuable asset to an NFL offensive line.”
Strengths:
Leverage
Anchor
Grip strength
Body positioning
Concerns:
Athleticism
Strength in lower half
Lunging at defenders
Film Analysis:
While Zeke Correll may lack an elite athletic profile or fundamental strength, his G/C versatility could make him a valuable asset to an NFL offensive line. He has primarily lived at center but spent the majority of the 2021 campaign (Notre Dame) at left guard.
As a run blocker, Correll displays adequate play strength and explosiveness. Does not fire off the ball at the pivot point but is mostly stout at contact. Can get pushed back or worked around if his hands get outside his opponent’s chest. Plays with nice depth in his lower half to generate force into his opponents but must utilize his hands more to establish positioning. When latched, however, Correll showcases the ability to slide and shuffle with varying body types. Remains a climber at this point in his evaluation rather than a unique puller at the center position. Athleticism and footwork in space remain limited.
In pass pro, Correll uses his technique well and is quick to shut down interior linemen who prioritize a bull rush. He has a strong anchor and is quick to screw his cleats in the turf (three sacks allowed in four years). Snaps are consistent and on target when faced with a lineman aligned at his nose. Active hands and feet. Not an overpowering player but competes his tail off and uses every ounce of weight on his frame to stymie pass rushers. Has a few flashes in space (Ohio State) that showcase his versatility if asked to play guard. Also does a nice job of handling and passing off stunts and twists. Smart football player along the interior.
Concerns remain about Correll’s knack for lunging at defenders in the run game. Does not have a ton of power coiled up in his frame, thus he can opt to use his body mass to attempt to move opponents. Defenders will often work around him quickly in those instances. He has room to get stronger throughout his frame to provide more push in the run game instead of stalemating.
Overall, Correll will provide versatility to a front five with a high level of production at multiple Power Four programs.
Prospect Projection: Day 3 — Role Specific
Written by: Ryan Fowler
Exposures: Ohio State (2023), Duke (2023), Louisville (2023)
