Michigan State University center Matt Gulbin is viewed as one of the top prospects for the 2026 NFL draft. Find out where he is projected to be selected in the draft, and how his game translates to the next level.
Measurables:
Height: 6’4”
Weight: 312 lbs.
Position: Center/Offensive Guard
School: Wake Forest Blue Demons / Michigan State University Spartans
2026 NFL Draft: Matt Gulbin Scouting Report
As a transfer student from Wake Forest, Matt Gulbin earned 2024 All-ACC honorable mention honors and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in communication before choosing to play his final year of eligibility at Michigan State University. At MSU, Gulbin made his biggest contribution as a versatile athlete who transitioned from guard to become the starting center for the Spartans.
Previously, except for one game at Wake Forest, Gulbin started at either right or left guard in his 23 starts. However, at MSU, the coaching staff saw his potential early and named him the starting center.
The transition proved seamless. Gulbin was voted team captain and named to the Rimington Trophy Watch List. The award, which is given annually to the nation’s top center, put the spotlight squarely on Gulbin and his calm, steadying influence on the offensive line.
Gulbin’s solid chemistry with MSU quarterback Aidan Chiles helped establish a significantly improved offensive front. He played every snap of the Spartans’ first 11 games for a total of 727 snaps. Gulbin’s performance earned him an honorable All-Big Ten choice mention. He finished the season with an overall grade of 82.1, a run-blocking grade of 80.3 (first in the FBS), and a pass-blocking grade of 87.2 (seventh in the FBS).
However, an injury forced Gulbin to miss the regular-season finale vs. Maryland. He finished the regular season ranked, the number two FBS center by PFF.com.
Strengths:
- Positional versatility and experience playing both guard positions as well as center
- A stout anchor with superior strength who can maintain his balance
- Recovers quickly from defensive punches to reset
- Creates a powerful brick wall against the opposition
- Respected team leader with high football IQ
- Relentless run blocker who follows through and finishes
Weaknesses:
- Hands can be inconsistent at times
- Occasional pad level issues
- Doesn’t demonstrate elite elements of technique
- A fifth-year senior, he is older than other prospects
Best Fits: Detroit Lions, Cincinnati Bengals
Final Thoughts:
While Gulbin may not have as much experience playing center as some of his counterparts, he performed admirably in the role when given the opportunity. His shorter arm length and pad level concerns may be offset by powerful strength, a relentless desire, and the ability to learn to play multiple roles.
Mel Kiper has Gulbin ranked 4th for interior offensive lineman after Olaivavega Ioane, Connor Lew, and Emmanuel Pregnon. Expectations vary, with some suggesting he will be a third-round pick and others targeting a fifth-round floor. Nonetheless, most acknowledge Gulbin will eventually become a starter.
However, with Lew still recovering from his ACL surgery in October, he’s looking at a substantial rehabilitation that will impact the 2026 offseason and early pre-season. Even with Lew’s obvious talents, Gulbin could be the first to emerge as a starting center.
