FantasyPros will be taking a look at early NFL Draft scouting reports before the Combine in February. Here’s a look at Kansas State OC Sam Hecht.
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2026 NFL Draft Scouting Report: Sam Hecht
Sam Hecht (OC – Kansas State)
6’4″ – 300 lbs.
Background
Walked on to Kansas State, where he redshirted before playing sparingly over the next two seasons of his collegiate career. Worked his way into the starting lineup for 2024, allowing eleven hurries but no sacks or hits, then reprised the pivot role in 2025, with one hit and seven hurries allowed.
Positives
Worked his way up from a walk-on to an effective two-year starter in the team’s balanced offensive scheme, showing an impressive developmental trajectory. Has pretty good height for a pro center; carries his weight well, with a relatively trim build. Has above-average short-area quickness to hook opponents in the run game, with a good understanding of positioning to wall off. Rangy player who has solid top-end speed and was regularly asked to get out in space and secure blocks, showing a nice work rate down the field and successfully lining up opponents. Does a nice job of pulling to either side of the formation and walling off opposing defenders to help running backs reach the edge. Hand placement is accurate, and shows solid grip strength and very good competitiveness through the whistle. Keeps his feet going after contact, and is able to create movement when he attacks the outside shoulder of an opponent. Pass sets are smooth and fundamentally sound. Shows good lateral agility in pass protection to cut off would-be penetrators. Anchors a little bit better against power than anticipated given his thinner frame. Cut down penalties from five in 2024 to zero this past year.
Negatives
Frame isn’t the thickest and might be asked to gain some additional bulk at the pro level. Has very little in-game experience anywhere besides center. More of a wall-off blocker than a phone-booth mauler. Pad level can be a little bit higher than you’d like. Occasionally bends at the waist because of a lack of ideal length. Can struggle to handle power at times, leading to balance issues; seems to be when his base gets narrow or he’s late with his hands, forcing him to catch opposing bull-rushers. Accurate with his punch, but doesn’t have a ton of power behind it to jolt opponents.
Summary
A prospect who’s been rising through the process, his journey from a walk-on to a two-year starter and one of the top center prospects in the class has been very impressive. He is a relatively tall center with plenty of range and a strong understanding of positioning, although he’ll likely be asked to add additional bulk and functional strength at the next level to hold up against power. With some time in the weight room, looks like he could develop into a starter on the pivot.
Projection: Round 3-4
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