Logan Stenberg, OG, Kentucky
Interior offensive linemen are, perhaps by dint of their position, sleepers by default. Offensive tackles get all the notoriety during the draft process due to their task of protecting the edges, and handling the talented pass rushers coming off the edge that teams face week in and week out. But the interior guys? Perhaps the best compliment you can pay to an offensive guard is that he is a “road grader in the running game.” Well, this is a passing league so…
But these guys obviously still matter. Especially when you observe what immediate A-Gap pressure can do to even the best of quarterbacks. Watch Tom Brady when he struggles, and chances are you will see that quick inside pressure forcing him off his spot and causing him frustration.
Logan Stenberg might not be the first name that comes to mind when thinking about this draft class, but he will certainly leave a lasting impression on you. His teammates called him the most hated person in the SEC, an almost impressive accomplishment when you consider the options in the conference. Stenberg himself has called his playing style “nasty,” and he drew comparisons to Conrad Dobler here at Touchdown Wire.
This guy:
Happy 68th birthday to former #BigRed tough guy Conrad Dobler who was a 3 time Pro Bowler and named the Pro Football’s Dirtiest Player in 1977. pic.twitter.com/2CFzeAjJLn
— St. Louis Football Cardinals (@BigRed_STL) October 1, 2018
What makes Stenberg a good prospect is how he combines his nasty streak with his technical side. His hand placement is fantastic at the point of attack, as well as in pass protection. In addition, he plays under control with his feet under him and with patience. Some offensive linemen will wait for the defender to strike, but they lack the ability to truly counter the move the defender puts on them. Stenberg is the opposite. He can be patient during the play but can deftly counter what the defender throws at him.
A nasty technician. I think both Stenberg – and his next quarterback – would love the description.