With much of the draft discussion revolving around the Pittsburgh Steelers taking center in the first two rounds, the one option that should be considered is Penn State's Hunter Nourzad.
Last season, Nourzad made a full-time switch to the center position prior to the 2023 college football season. In his lone season at the position, Nourzad surrendered no sacks, five quarterback hits, and 11 hurries on 416 pass-blocking snaps, according to Pro Football Focus. He was named second-team All-Big Ten for his performance last season.
Nourzad should not be perceived as a consolation prize if both Jackson Powers-Johnson and Zach Frazier were no longer options for the Steelers during the draft. Nourzad's positional versatility is one of many aspects that would make him a valuable prospect.
During his time at Cornell, Nourzad played right tackle and, at one point, was named Ivy League Offensive Lineman of the Year in 2021. In his first year with the Nittany Lions, he played at the guard position and earned honorable Big-Ten mention in 2021.
Nourzad was one of five center prospects invited to the Steelers' facility for a top-30 visit. If the team decided to address this position after the first two rounds, Nourzad would be an option for them to explore. With his proven track record of playing in multiple positions at a high level, his rugged, physical style would make him the right fit for their offensive line.