The Panthers need to replace the retiring Ryan Kalil at center. Could Elgton Jenkins be an option for them?
A native of Clarksdale, Mississippi Elgton Jenkins was rated as a 3 star recruit by 247Sports. Jenkins was a versatile offensive lineman for the Bulldogs. He started 34 games, but 26 of them came at center. According to Pro Football Focus, Jenkins only allowed five total pressures in 369 pass blocking snaps in 2018. He was a two time member of the SEC All Academic Honor Roll.
Film review
Jenkins popped on my radar a couple weeks ago at the Senior Bowl. He has a powerful base to drop his base and anchor against nose tackles or 3-technique defensive tackles. Jenkins was battle tested in the SEC. He faced potential No. 1 overall pick Quinnen Williams. Check out these five clips to see how he did.
5 clips of Quinnen Williams vs Elgton Jenkins pic.twitter.com/w0b3O7akxD
— Billy Marshall (@BillyM_91) February 14, 2019
Some wins. Some losses. Williams is an outstanding prospect. Jenkins shouldn’t dwell on losing these reps. Williams caused him issues with his quickness. Jenkins didn’t get his hands up soon enough, which forced him in a trailing position. On the whole though, Jenkins did control him with his hand placement a few times. His strong hands allow him to stay engaged longer.
Against his school’s in state rival, Jenkins flashed dominant traits. His functional strength stands out as a run blocker. He understands angles especially on down blocks. Jenkins gains positioning, but then closes the wall to create an alley for the running back. His football IQ is also featured on these clips. He is quick and smart enough to pick up on a stunt or other blitzes without affecting the protection.
I was impressed with Miss State Center Elgton Jenkins at the Senior Bowl. His tape also doesn't disappoint. Here are 7 clips vs LSU pic.twitter.com/xhifPSnoq0
— Billy Marshall (@BillyM_91) February 15, 2019
It was more of the same for Jenkins against LSU. He showed strong hands, functional strength, a solid anchor, walling lane runs, and football intelligence. Jenkins has the production (one sack conceded in two years), experience, and played at the highest level in college football. It will not be a surprise if he continues to climb up boards.
Fit with Carolina
The Panthers need a center. Ryan Kalil’s performance dropped in 2018, but with his retirement the urgency to keep Cam Newton’s pocket clean increases. There has been noise that some teams are considering Jenkins as a left tackle. I strongly disagree. He has the potential to become a Pro Bowl center.
I did a film piece on Garrett Bradbury last month. He is talented in his own right. However, Jenkins is a better fit in Carolina’s gap and power scheme. Further, I don’t believe that Jenkins will cost as much as Bradbury. He could be available in the second round, which makes sense. Jenkins might not have the nastiness, but he has the fundamentals and core traits to succeed long term.
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