One of the best among a top-rated center class. Since taking control of the center position as a sophomore, Akselsen has been voted first-team all-conference three consecutive years and was a Rimington Trophy finalist each of the past two seasons. An academic standout, as well, Akselsen was an Academic All-American the past two years. Akselsen brings good size to the position, with room to fill his frame, and while not the most athletic player, he more than makes up for it with his heady play and refined technique.
Combine Measurables:
Height: 6’ 5”
Weight: 290
Arm Span: 33 1/4“
Hand Size: 10”
40-Yard Dash: 5.09
Bench Press: 29
Vertical: 28.5”
Broad Jump: 9’ 0”
3-Cone Drill: 7.96
20 Yd Shuttle: 4.71
Strengths:
Tall, lean center with large arms and a solid lower body build. Puts in full effort on every play, often getting downfield for a second or third block. Adept at regular and shotgun snaps, getting his hands up quickly afterwards. Despite his size, he can quickly get low to cut block and will continue to work after the initial contact. Leader of the line. Creates huge holes on combination blocks inside. Technician who has been taught the fundamentals. Good tape in both power and zone plays. Balance and body control are building blocks of his play. Hands land with flat feet, great accuracy, force and timing. Excellent awareness against twists and blitzes.
Weaknesses:
Plays a bit high at times, occasionally losing leverage or getting pushed back against wide-bodies. Does not play with a particularly wide base. Needs quicker feet and lateral movement in pass protection to handle quick, penetrating three-technique tackles and adjust to blitzing linebackers inside. Height will always be an issue when trying to get leverage against veteran pro defensive linemen.
Combine Measurables:
Height: 6’ 5”
Weight: 290
Arm Span: 33 1/4“
Hand Size: 10”
40-Yard Dash: 5.09
Bench Press: 29
Vertical: 28.5”
Broad Jump: 9’ 0”
3-Cone Drill: 7.96
20 Yd Shuttle: 4.71
Strengths:
Tall, lean center with large arms and a solid lower body build. Puts in full effort on every play, often getting downfield for a second or third block. Adept at regular and shotgun snaps, getting his hands up quickly afterwards. Despite his size, he can quickly get low to cut block and will continue to work after the initial contact. Leader of the line. Creates huge holes on combination blocks inside. Technician who has been taught the fundamentals. Good tape in both power and zone plays. Balance and body control are building blocks of his play. Hands land with flat feet, great accuracy, force and timing. Excellent awareness against twists and blitzes.
Weaknesses:
Plays a bit high at times, occasionally losing leverage or getting pushed back against wide-bodies. Does not play with a particularly wide base. Needs quicker feet and lateral movement in pass protection to handle quick, penetrating three-technique tackles and adjust to blitzing linebackers inside. Height will always be an issue when trying to get leverage against veteran pro defensive linemen.