2016 NFL Draft center rankings: Alabama’s Ryan Kelly a pro-ready star

There are few more pro-ready players in the 2016 NFL Draft than Alabama center Ryan Kelly. The Crimson Tide pivot is a technical master. He gets his snap off in a hurry and gets down in his stance to block without a wasted motion. Touted by his coaches for his communication on the line and ability to put his teammates in the right position. Kelly may not look physically imposing, but he rarely gets overpowered at the line. He’s the definition of a plug-and-play prospect.

Nick Martin of Notre Dame isn’t far behind him. Martin maintains a good base to hold leverage and is really good at help blocking with guards. Some teams may view Martin as a guard, which he spent some time at with the Irish.

For teams in search of an athletic center, Max Tuerk of USC offers a lot to like. Before tearing his ACL in October, Tuerk had the look of the draft’s top center. He’s similar in style to Max Unger of the Saints. Tuerk excels on getting out on the move on pulls and working to attack defenders on the second level. He’s not overpowering, but his length is good and helps make up for it.

Isaac Seumalo of Oregon State is another center who some teams could see as a guard. He played both with the Beavers, and could contribute early in his career if he’s healthy. Jack Allen of Michigan State and Evan Boehm of Missouri aren’t overly imposing, but they’re solid players who should develop into NFL starters.

Day 3 gem: When Temple played Notre Dame in the middle of last season, Owls center Kyle Friend looked like the best player on the field at times. He’s a mean and nasty blocker up front who will fire out of his snap with aggression.

Overall position grade: B+

As a whole, this is an impressive center group. It wouldn’t be a shock to see seven or eight NFL starters in this class. Kelly should be the first one, but this is a good year to need a center.