2019 NFL Draft Profile: OL Connor McGovern

Offensive lineman could be one of the first Nittany Lions selected in the 2019 NFL Draft 

Penn State will have a big hole to fill on the offensive line this season with the departure of Connor McGovern to the NFL. The junior elected to skip his senior season of college and made himself eligible for the 2019 NFL Draft. He’s projected as a top interior lineman and should hear his name called within the first few rounds of the draft.

Has the size and versatility to be a very productive interior lineman in the NFL. Over his time at Penn State he’s played both guard and center, something that will make him very attractive to NFL suitors.

McGovern came to Happy Valley as a member of the 2016 recruiting class. Head coach James Franklin made a commitment to build a very good through recruiting, and McGovern was a big part of that. Rated as a four-star recruit by 247Sports, McGovern was the No. 3 center and held offers from the likes of Maryland, Miami, Michigan State, and West Virginia, among others.

He made nine starts as a true freshman in 2016 and earned honorable mention Freshman All-Big Ten honors. He spent time at both guard and center that season. In 2017 he started all 13 games at center and helped pave the way for a very successful Penn State rushing attack, led by star running back Saquon Barkley.

This past year, McGovern shifted to right guard, making 12 starts. He also had a start at center. He was once again one of Penn State’s best offensive linemen and earned third-team All-Big Ten honors.

His successful junior season earned him an invite to the NFL Combine in Indianapolis. He tested well in Indianapolis and also looked good during Penn State’s Pro Day. McGovern is projected to be an early-round pick according to NFL.com analyst Lance Zierlein. He lists McGovern’s strengths as having an NFL body type and the ability to work well in double teams. He also mentions his experience starting at both guard and center.

Depending on where running back Miles Sanders goes, McGovern has an opportunity to be the first Nittany Lion selected in the 2019 NFL Draft. Look for him to be taken during the second day, with a good possibility in landing in Round 2.

Whichever pro team selects McGovern will be getting a big body and a very experienced player for the interior of the offensive line.