DALTON FREEMAN C, Clemson




News & Updates

Nov 28

NFP Scout Talk: 2013 Centers

Holmes of USC still tops the list, but another center has moved up on NFL boards.



STRENGTHS - Freeman shows the ability to get off the line quickly enables him to get to the 2nd level well. Solid footwork and punch in the pocket to fend off smaller DL. Footwork also enables him to slide well in the pocket. Freeman is physical and shows very good blocking technique without penalty.

WEAKNESSES - Freeman is small in the legs and lacks the strength to move the bigger DL off the LOS. He lacks awareness and reacts slowly in picking up blocks both at the LOS and in the 2nd level. Needs to get more leverage/strength in his legs as he is unable to explode into his block allowing the defender to gain more leverage.

SUMMARY - Freeman shows that he possesses the athleticism to get off the snap quickly, get into the 2nd level quickly, and has the footwork in the pocket to slide well and stay with his man in pass pro. He has very good blocking technique and shows the ability to move guys off the LOS against the smaller defenders. Freeman will struggles against the bigger defenders in the NFL. He lacks the strength in the legs to be able to explode to gain leverage and lack of strength will cause him to be over powered. Freeman needs to improve his reaction time on picking up blocks inside the pocket after fending off his assignment. Overall, Freeman does not have the size or strength to contribute in the NFL now, so he is not a player I would draft. However, because he is quick and technically sound he would be worth signing as a free agent to see if he can add weight and improve strength enough to be a backup center.