2009: started 14 games at center, All-American, Rimington Trophy winner
C Maurkice Pouncey Scouting Report
Strengths:
Maurkice Pouncey is a fine combination of brawn and intelligence at the center position. The 2009 Rimington Trophy winner gets off at the snap of the ball with quickness and power. Pouncey plays with a chip on his shoulder and likes to be physical and run block. He has the quickness to reach the second level and will not hesitate to take out his aggressions on a linebacker. The three-year starter has a well-proportioned build and has power in his lower body. The All-American anchors well and can keep the pocket from collapsing against big defensive tackles. Pouncey is fairly tall, but is not stiff and can bend his knees and play with a good pad level. There were not many instances where a defensive tackle was able to get under his pads and take him for a ride. The All-SEC center was durable at Florida. Pouncey has good balance and quick, strong hands. He is versatile and could play guard or center in the NFL. He was used to sustaining his blocks to the whistle because he played with a running quarterback who also did not have a quick release. Pouncey played against quality defensive tackles and fast defenders in the SEC. He also did a solid job against Gerald McCoy and the Oklahoma defense in the 2009 BCS Championship game.
Weaknesses:
He does not have particularly long arms and could be stronger in the upper body. Pouncey cannot do anything about his arm length, but still is very young and will gain more strength, in time with diligent weight work. His lower body strength (which is more important) is very good.
Football Character & Mental Make-Up:
Pouncey is passionate about football. The former Gator loves to compete on the gridiron and is a team player. Pouncey was the leader of the Florida offensive line. He was a major reason why the unit was cohesive and was not surprised by stunts and blitzes very often. The NFL team that drafts him will have a player who will work hard, study film and improve upon his technique.
C Maurkice Pouncey Draft Value
Rating:
Top of the 2nd Round
NOTE: Our ratings are NOT where we predict a player will be drafted, but rather, where we believe a player SHOULD be drafted based upon future production.
Forecast:
Maurkice Pouncey compares favorably to Alex Mack, who was the 21st pick in the 2009 NFL Draft. Pouncey started for Florida as a true freshman. That is a testament to his maturity, physical talent and high football IQ. Pouncey can play early for an NFL team and should be a rock inside for many years. PFDN has him rated as a high 2nd round talent, but he easily could sneak into the late 1st round of the 2010 NFL Draft.
Note: We put as much effort into researching a player’s football character (passion or interest in the game) and mental make-up as we do grading game film. Why? Because it is just as important (perhaps more so) as a player’s physical tools. Our scouting reports reflect this emphasis on capturing the total picture.
