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Name: Connor McGovern
Position: OG/C
Height: 6’4" Weight: 305 lbs
Age: 24 Experience: 2
College: Missouri
The University of Missouri has became a strong NFL pipeline for young emerging talent, in particular on defense where several former players have went on to have strong careers in the pros. Additionally, they have done a good job at preparing and sending young prospects on the offensive line as well, including players such as Mitch Morse and Evan Boehm. The Broncos selected McGovern in the fifth-round of the 2017 NFL Draft, but he never saw action in any game as a rookie and was a health scratch for the entire season.
Connor McGovern, our 5th rd pick from Missouri, is a tough, intelligent & athletic guard. He's also played some tackle.
— John Elway (@johnelway) April 30, 2016
Known for being a weight-room junkie and having impeccable strength, the Fargo, North Dakota native has the potential to be a quality player in the NFL. He played all over the line for the Tigers during his collegiate career, spending most of his time outside at right tackle, but also seeing time at right guard and left tackle. However, the franchise believes his skills translate best to the interior in the NFL. With top-flight center Matthew Paradis sidelined for OTA’s and minicamp after recovering from off-season hip surgery, McGovern has been taking valuable first-team reps at center on the Broncos’ offensive line.
And Connor McGovern continues to snap in place of center-in-waiting Matt Paradis. So lots of moving parts still up front. #9sports
— Mike Klis (@MikeKlis) June 13, 2017
Under the past regime, the Broncos’ line used primarily zone-blocking concepts, but the addition of offensive line coach Jeff Davidson signals an overhaul in that department. I expect the team to employ a large number of power running game calls that will be beneficial to McGovern’s development and aid in his ability to make an impact for the team in 2017 and down the road.
The Good
Former three-year collegiate starter who is as strong as an ox. Offers positional flexibility with the skills to play an position on the interior in the NFL. Was known very good run blocker at Missouri. Possesses above-average athleticism and has the ability to get to the second-level with ease in respect to his blocks. Has the tools to eventually be a starter.
The Bad
He was a healthy scratch for the entire 2016 season, which does raise some concerns. Occasionally struggled in pass protection on the outside at Missouri, which is likely a primary reason for him kicking it inside as a pro. Will likely only see time as a starter in 2017 if someone performs badly or is injured.
Quotable
“At center in this league, it’s more than snapping the ball and blocking your guy. It’s about identifying the backers. It’s pass protection. It’s making the line call. If he shows he can play, it helps our football team.” — Broncos Head Coach Vance Joseph on Connor McGovern’s play during OTA’s
Status
The Denver Broncos added some beef to their offensive line this offseason by bringing in Ronald Leary, Menelik Watson and spending a first-round draft selection on Garett Bolles, but that wasn’t necessarily an indictment on McGovern’s potential and future with the team.
If there is any set-back in Paradis’ recovery from hip surgery, McGovern would be your 2017 opening day starter at center. At the very least, McGovern will make the team as a flexible back-up who would be able to start in place of any player on the interior of they were to get injured or perform badly.