Wyoming Cowboys center Nofoafia Tulafono is a strong, imposing offensive lineman who hasn’t been spoken about much in draft circles. In a weak center class, could the California native be drafted higher than many imagine?
Tulafono’s scouting report looks at the profile of the Cowboys’ center and if he carries a draft-able grade.
Nofoafia Tulafono’s Scouting Report
Size: 6’2″, 325 pounds
Key Stat: Started 38 consecutive games from 2022 to 2024.
Projected Role: Developmental backup
Strengths
- Dense frame.
- Uses his size to be imposing in space with physicality.
- Extensive power profile to maintain point of attack with stifling contact leverage
- He has a solid center of gravity, which helps him maintain a strong anchor against power rushes.
- Finishing mentality, is a mauler in space as a puller.
- Shows a relentless, dominating demeanor when climbing to the second level, overpowering defenders in space.
- He has enough flexibility to rotate his body and engage effectively with blockers.
Areas to Improve
- Lacks top-tier athleticism
- He isn’t particularly explosive off the snap, which limits his ability to gain an early advantage in pass protection.
- His hand placement could be more forceful and punchy, needing improvement to create leverage more effectively.
- Would benefit from lowering his stance, allowing him to get under defenders’ pads for a more effective push.
- Despite his power, he struggles to maintain blocks for extended periods, allowing defenders to disengage easier.
Nofoafia Tulafono’s NFL Draft Outlook
Tulafono brings a powerful presence to the field with his solid frame and strong center of gravity. Thanks to his physicality and mauling mentality, he can dominate in space at 6’2″ and 325 pounds. This becomes evident when he pulls and climbs to the second level, allowing him to overpower defenders and create running lanes.
However, Tulafono lacks top-tier athleticism and is not explosive off the snap, which may limit his ability to match up against quicker, more athletic defenders at the next level. His hand usage could also be more forceful, as his punch needs to generate more immediate leverage.
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Additionally, the Wyoming center’s stance could be refined to help him drive defenders back more efficiently. In pass protection, despite his power, he struggles to maintain blocks for more extended periods, allowing defenders to disengage more easily.
Bottom Line: Tulafono has the skills to contribute at the NFL level, but he must develop and refine certain aspects of his game to become a regular starter. NFL teams will likely view him as a long-term developmental option that they can groom into a reliable backup.
With solid traits, size, and a robust profile, there are developmental aspects to consider that could lead to Tulafono being selected in the late rounds.
Draft Projection: UDFA
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