Interior offensive linemen often require a broader lens when scouting, as their value is tied to consistency, availability, and functional strength rather than highlight-driven production.
We are going to be covering players who are eligible at every position in the upcoming 2026 draft, and not all prospects project as early selections. Centers with extensive starting experience, scheme versatility, and exposure to high-level competition often find their path defined by reliability and role fit rather than draft-day upside alone.
For this report, we will be discussing an interior offensive lineman. With that in mind, here is my report on Pat Coogan.
Information
Pat Coogan
Background Tag: Experienced interior lineman with multi-year starting background
School: Indiana
Conference: Big Ten
Height/Weight: 6-5, 311 lbs
Age when Drafted: 23
Previous School: Notre Dame
All-Star Game: Shrine Bowl
BackgroundMulti-year collegiate contributor with starting experience at both Notre Dame and IndianaAppeared in 41 career games with 37 starts across five seasonsStarted his career at left guard before transitioning to centerEntered the season in a reserve role before stepping into the lineup following an injury ahead of him, ultimately securing the starting center positionPart of the offensive line units that helped guide teams to sustained rushing success and postseason playNotable StatsCareer Snapshot
Games Played: 41
Starts: 37
2025 (Indiana):
Full-time starting center
Started all 11 games
Part of an offensive line that produced multiple 300-yard rushing performances
Notable PFF Numbers from 2025
Overall Grade: 74.9
Pass Blocking Grade: 71.5
Run Blocking Grade: 83.1
Total Snaps: 825
Pressures Allowed: 8
Previous seasons at Notre Dame showed consistent snap volume and steady improvement, with overall grades generally ranging from the mid-60s to low-70s before his most efficient season at Indiana.
SkillsOperates with a sturdy base and shows the ability to absorb power at the point of attackDisplays functional hand placement and works to re-anchor when defenders attempt to counterPlays with controlled footwork in pass protection, maintaining balance through contactShows awareness in interior pass sets, particularly when sorting late movementComfortable operating within zone and gap concepts as a run blockerTakes efficient angles when climbing up the field to block at the second levelRelies more on positioning and strength than sudden quicknessBrings steadiness and composure to the interior rather than play-to-play dominancePlayer Summary
Pat Coogan profiles as an experienced, assignment-sound center whose value is rooted in consistency, availability, and role clarity. His collegiate career reflects a player who has handled multiple interior positions, adapted to role changes, and stabilized offensive lines at two Power Four programs. When inserted into the lineup, he has shown the ability to hold the job and provide reliable interior play.
From a projection standpoint, Coogan does not offer high-end athletic upside. Still, his PFF data support a player who wins through functional strength, balance, and efficiency, particularly in the run game. Overall, he projects as an NFL Draft day candidate with a realistic chance to compete for interior depth at the next level, especially for teams seeking a dependable center capable of handling spot starts and developmental snaps.